Sorry for the easy questions, but I'm a Chevy Expert, not much of a Ford Engine guy.

1. Is the Harmonic Balancer keyed (only goes on one way)? Mine is rusty and can't find the timing line for TDC. I marked it after I brought the engine to TDC, but I want the real mark so there is zero doubt in my mind.

2. To do the Timing Chain, does the front of the oil pan need to be dropped (like a SBC) to remove the timing chain cover?

 

The balacer is indeed keyed. it only goes on one way so if you can find the marks somehow, they should be fine.
Dont know about the chevy, but the trick is you can get the timing cover off with the pan on, but you wont be able to get it back on with the new seals without removing the sump first. Found that out the hard way LOL.

 

timing chain, pull dampner and pull waterpump then timing cover. once pulled you'll figure out the keyed dampner situation. forgot drain coolant first Ha! ha!.