Kiwi, Yep, I should have mentioned the state of assembly when asking for opinions and advice, though the barrels without pistons would not be at play.
Musky, I knew I was turning in the wrong direction and figured it didn't make a difference but, before it loosened-up a bit, the idler nut was unscrewing when turning in the correct direction. Even though I just got out of bed, I ran to the garage to check if the turning was any different in the correct direction. I does seem a tad easier. The only thing I can think of as a reason is the new SRM oil pump. Oh man, I hope there was no "Under no circumstances should you turn the pump in the wrong direction" instruction.
Wozza, They were well-dried water bottles, which work better in sows. I knew I should have checked the spelling of "horde" while assuming no one would mind being called part of one. But really, who among you would not admit to being a bit of a hoarder, particularly of BSA parts.
Dutch, Could you imagine the chiding I would take if I let the rods clank against the cylinder walls? Good idea about removing the idler gear. I was on my way towrd doing that when I discovered that turning over seemed not all that bad.
Bill, No 357 cam, but what matter with no head? Yeah, new oil pump and new dynamo belt drive.
Richard L.