With the crank at TDC and timing marks lined up this 2002 wrx's driver side cam sprockets both spun in the same direction clockwise.  I thought the intake cam would turn counterclockwise. With this scenario would turning the intake cam back counter clockwise to its timed position be the wrong thing to do putting on new belt.

Tou must be confused about the timing marks, as you align the crankshaft (flywheel) to the III mark and not the 0 deg mark. when the crank is at the III mark, all of the pistons are at the center of their stroke, allowing you to turn the cams without valve interference. You should turn the cams clock wise with engine rotoation tpo set your mark. avoid turning them backwards. And never turn the crank backwards as it can cavitate the oil pump seals.

 

and do not use any arrows for timing belt alignment. use only the hash marks

Yeah finally figured that out. I did turn crank back about quarter turn before getting bolt broke loose. Anyway of checking oil pump seals. just replace crankshaft seal. Valves should be at zero lift so getting intake valve back into position going clockwise should be okay.

oil pump just has an oring and gasket maker around the mating surface to the block.

 

if it's leaking externally the mating surface needs resealed.

can't test the oring.

 

generally a good idea to just reseal the pump at this age though maybe if it's perfect, clean, lightly used, low miles...who knows:

1. pull it (8 bolts or so?)

2. replace oring

3.  tighten backing plate screws - locktite any loose ones

4.  install crank seal (easier with pump off vehicle!)