just curious if u guys replace the valve cover / spark plug gaskets too?

 

No need too, just be careful not to damage them and you will be fine. I've pulled my valve cover twice with no leaks or problems.

 

With any engine over 25-30k miles, I'd replace the gaskets. They're not expensive parts and it's easy to do while the valve cover is off. I found that my MY 2000 engine started weeping oil past the valve cover gasket at around 40k miles. YMMV