ToocoolZ28

I seem to remember a site a while ago with pics and instructions on replacing the optispark. I cant find it now and have a few questions.
1. Do I have to pull the hub off the the end of the crank shaft? If so, is it bolted or just pressed?
2. Which way does the seal for the shaft off the cam supposed to face, in or out? Any pics anywhere?
I replaced this about 8 years ago and forgot what a pain it is, I'm also trying to replace the plug wires without dropping the crossover pipe (Borla 3" Y-pipe) the studs are pretty rusty and I dont think they will come out.
Thanks for ANY help.
Ron

ss.slp.ls1

Helps to remove radiator fans, though not necessary
Remove balancer/dampener (not entire hub)
Remove water pump (may require unbolting the air pump, just let it hang)
Remove old opti, replace, index it correctly.

These may help (courtesy of Shoebox):
http://shbox.com/ci/balancer_hub.jpg
http://shbox.com/ci/water_pump.jpg
http://shbox.com/ci/opti_mounting.jpg
http://shbox.com/ci/ci411.jpg
http://shbox.com/ci/ci276.jpg

Pontiac_97

drain radiator before pulling the water pump. also pull the sensor on the front of it to let out more coolant. makes it less messy when you actually pull it off. there is a little plastic drain valve that unscrews at the bottom of the radiator