Yes, you can spin it back without an issue. Getting the cam timing set right whenever the belt is being replaced usually requires a little bit of turning it back and forth.

Getting the timing belt timed just right often requires a couple of tries. And the marks on the cam gears are somewhat counter-intuitive. I often turn the engine slowly in the proper direction with a wrench once the belt is installed to ensure everything is dead on when it comes back around.

Does your Montego '96 have a tan interior and electric windows, mirrors, and cruise control? If so, you also have the desirable Torsen limited slip differential.

 

None of those options are present, but when I look at the miata guide to deciphering differentials it looks like a torsen when looking at the 3rd(?) Member. Lifters are in, cams installed, timed, and lower timing cover installed before the wifey said it's bed time. I can say with certainty that this is the most fun I've had wrenching simply due to the thought of getting to drive with the top down.

 

These cars are pretty easy to work on, too.

Just think how much more fun it will be once you upgrade the suspension, brakes, and add a turbo, haha!

 

And the first trip out. Only complaint is a rattle coming from ? Somewhere behind me. Trunk lid rods are still in the clip. Haven't washed it yet though. It's supposed to rain around here.

 

You haven't washed it? It only takes a cup of water