Put the screwdriver in the slot that drives the bottom of the distributor shaft. Twist counter clockwise. If it doesnt walk up on its own you have another issue such as the bottom of the shaft being twisted where it goes into the oil pump.
Chrysler never used an oil pump gasket. Aftermarket kits have one. It is not needed, there are two machined surfaces that mate and seal together. If a gasket was installed it could very well have blown out and caused your problems....