[Gearhead999]

Common problem. You can try greasing the end of the dist. It may help.

Turn the oil pump shaft with a socket and long extension, just don't drop the socket in the engine. It will stick on the shaft and the extension will come off and socket into the pan. [Don't ask how I know this happens]

Easiest is to do as Dark Knight said. It will fall right in. You're going to time the engine anyway, after you get it running.

Happy Thanksgiving