1997 cl 500 timing cover

[pyp5y]

Can the timing cover (front of engine block) be removed without the sump being removed first...timing chain has snapped on my m119 engine,all ancillarys,cams etc have been removed and the timing cover is loose..however it only moves about an inch then stops...is there something hidden that could be holding it on..??...thanks

 

[kth286]

chain guide rails which may be broken

 

[pyp5y]

chain guide rails which may be broken

So does this mean the timing cover should come off without having to remove the sump or take the whole engine out..??