You might check with a local mechanic..., they may know if that seal can be replaced W/O removing the cover.
There's a lip on the cover that slips over the pan gasket. It helps to have the front of the pan loose to ease it out
and in. And, I believe the
cover gasket set comes with a new front pan gasket.
It's a bit tricky the first time but, very doable.
You can test the T-chain & gears at any time by turning eng. (crank nut) back-n-forth with a
socket & breaker-bar, (key off) while watching the rotor in the dizzy. It (rotor) should move shortly
after the direction of turn is changed on the crank nut. (meaning not a lot of slop)
If cover must come off..,
It's best to start with timing mark on -0- and the rotor pointing to #1 spark plug wire inside the dizzy.
Then, with the cover off.., you can visually inspect the chain-n-gears.
The timing marks will (should already) be lined up B4 removal of gears -n- chain (if necessary) then the new set goes on with the two marks in the same location.
As I recall, you put the gears in the chain then slide both gears on at the same time. I believe they're key-wayed.
Once off.., don't move the crank or cam shaft for any reason.., except ever so slightly to slip the gears in place, but not likely.
Hope this is clear as mud.....
/
Wouldn't hurt to look in the book..., the pics are helpful..., & they walk you thru it.