The cam syncro is located behind the passangerside VC towards the inside edge. It is mounted into the block on the 4 Liter. If it is not seized in there it should b eeasy to remove the retainign bolt and pop it right up. I just generally feel using the proper tools for the job is important. I have been working on my brothers 4.2l I6 Chevy Trailblazer and now have the OTC master timing chain retaining kit for the Chevy i4 and i6 motors. IT was nto cheap but it makes linign cams up a lot easier. The kit also had th especial tool used for the Aveo 1.6l water pump that allows you to properly set timing belt tension, I just so happened to use that part of the kit a few weeks ago.
So it is not always a waste to purchase the correct tools fo rthe job , and th eheart ache that you are spared is well worht the few dollards the tools cost.