You can't get to the cam without removing the removing the timing cover. What you saw there is the balance beam. The cam is under the lifters.

Ok, but let'* say I'd like to get there, since everything on top is removed, is there a great amount of work left to do or I'm a couple bolts away?

Yes. The water pump and the entire timing cover needs to come off, and then you need to find a way to get it out the side of the block, which as we know is being blocked off by the frame of the car. You can lower the engine cradle or lift the engine out, or cut a hole in sheet metal to get the cam out and plug up the hole with something. Either way, its quite a bit of work.

ok ok, I'll calm my little nerves down and stay focused on the heads! thanks a lot!