True and false. Doug, you're not getting out of your decision so easy. Even if you retain your stock exhaust, the cam upgrade is STILL a most excellent upgrade with very noticeable results. I made the cam upgrade first, and then the exhaust upgrade later. The cam upgrade was the really big improvement. I'd agree that top end was not changed much by the cams, but there is so much more power at 3000 rpm that it feels like a different car. I agree that the exhaust upgrade is necessary for improving top end performance.
MJ, you are still asking the right questions. The price you should pay for the pin removal tool is $0. The thread is the same as the threaded end of a spark plug. So, a spark plug is perfect. I especially appreciate the ergonomically advanced porcelain and steel handle.
I did not have any special cam holding tool, and I struggled as a result, but got it done. IN one direction (removal I think), the chain itself keeps the sprocket from moving if the crankshaft is prevented from turning. Of course, this puts some stress on the chain but I'm not that easy to scare.
In the other direction you risk putting stress on the tensioning system. Perhaps I secured the chain in that direction too, like with a block of wood or something. Like I say, I probably struggled with the rocker shafts more than the cams, chains and sprockets. And even they are not impossible to overcome. I'm going to stick by my suggestion to remove the engine though. I certainly would.
My cams have the 19mm bolt, rather than the HUGE nuts that the earlier cars had. I was glad for that.
BTW, I got my dial indicator at Harbor Freight Tools for six dollars. I continue to use it, and the P-207 tool each time I adjust valves. This works best for me.