Yes, what normally works best is to have someone turn the crank as you rotate the seal out - turning them both at the same time and in the same direction.

Then do the reverse - turn the crank as you install the seal. Make sure to use a real thin shim between the block and the seal so you don’t shave any rubber off.

Once in follow the rest of what I mention, RTV in the corners, etc.

While I have never used the method - some people advocate pushing the seal in so one end is underflush of the block and then do the same on the retainer. This should make the lips align each other.