[Miata] timing belt/water pump

[Mickey Moss]

I am enjoying checking out and ordering  parts for my
recent purchased 90 NA classic red with
138,000 miles. A used motor was installed at 99,000 due
to a crank/pulley failure and I was afraid I might face this
same problem so a crank inspection was my first duty.
Great news--the key and channel look fine but I am still
replacing the pulley, sprocket, bolt, water pump
valve cover gaskets, plugs/wires, timing and drive belts. 
All parts are Mazda OE
Question 1- I marked the timing belt and cam pulleys
after verifying the E and I and the sprocket timing mark
were all correct. When I loosened the tensioned, the Intake
cam pulley turned clockwise about 1/4 of an inch.  It feels
like it is spring loaded. I can turn it back and it moves 
forward .  With tension on the belt, the cam pulley does
not turn but I am afraid something is not right. Do I have a
problem or is that normal?


Question 2 --Is it necessary to remove the thermostat 
housing to remove the water pump? I can not move the 
pump past the 2 inch ridge or protrusion back of the 
thermostat  housing. I did remove the rubber outer seal
on top of the pump.

Your comment will be appreciated
Thanks--Mickey
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