Will I need a new valve cover gasket just to pull the valve cover and check some things out?

definitely not...go ahead and do it. there will be no problems with pulling the valve cover off...ive seen 3 cam installs...no worries

Not really, but it is recommended, But i never do. All you need is tools, why are you taking it off?

Because I need to check my valves, lifters, etc. I had two NGK spark plug electrodes break off and now there is some serious tick. I've checked the cylinders for a light and magnet and found nothing, so either they're in the valves, went through the exhaust, or melted.

However, it sounds like they're still in there somewhere.

Holy Sweet Crap Batman!!

All you need is a 10mm and possibly a 12mm(if you unbolt one of the brackets that holds the throttle cable lin) and you can go to town on that sucker.

I've pulled my valve cover probably 4-5 times, never replaced the gasket, never leaked. Just watch how tight you torque them back down.

you NEED this

http://www.evomoto.com/tech_info.php...3_6&tech_id=18