[bignosejim]

I could be wrong, but I think that the $25 dollar plastic spacer serves that purpose. As long as the pistons are fully retracted, it would serve to properly set splined gear depth. I didn't use it to time my engine even though I have that sitting around in my garage. Maybe next time..

If you have access to the TIS instructions for replacing camshafts, that's the method they use. retract pistons, install vanos to the spacer, tighten 4 bolts to 14 nm then slacken 1/4 turn, remove spacers and bolt vanos to the head and tighten bolts.