What you are referring to is setting the engine at top dead center. You use a socket and ratchet and turn the crank by hand until you line up the match mark on the crank pulley to the 0* timing cover. It is easier to do if you pull the spark plugs, but it isn't necessary. This
'93FSM will be helpful, IIRC, it shows how to set the engine to TDC, as well as which set of intake and exhaust valves get adjusted on the first pass, as well as those on the second pass.
