Mattdave,

You had me confused for a while when you said you were turning the engine with the key. I was wondering what key you were using. I finally figured you meant you were turning the engine with the starter.

For this type of job, you have to turn the engine by the crank bolt because you have to precisely align the cam timing marks. If the engine turns hard, that is a sign of an engine with little wear. Easiest way is have one person turn the engine and another watch the timing marks.

After you retime the camshaft, always turn engine by hand at least 2 revolutions. If the timing is off and you crank it with the starter, you might break something like the cam towers, valves or camshaft. With your timing being off as far as it is. I'm surprised that the valves haven't hit the pistons already.

P E H