Does a seeping valve cover cause lifter ticking?

Hello everyone, Im back! The Riv is still running strong, even though it fragged a tensioner pulley last week. I just did an oil change right at the 3000 mark, and it was pretty dark. I know that my valve covers are leaking, but up unt recently the amount has been negligible, and I can place the increase in fluid loss at the feet of the oil pan I ruined fixing the tensioner. Im replacing the pan asap, but what worries me is the lifter tap. It drives me mad! its definitely not an exhaust leak, and Ive already replaced the pcv. I wanted to know if
a. this is something to address immediately,
b. as an amateur mechanic can i perform this repair myself? the front cover looks easy, but from what i see/ read, the alternator needs to be off, and a bunch of other stuff.

Our engines are normally VERY quiet. The lifters are roller lifters. A valve tap is cause for concern, and should be investigated immediately. It could be due to damaged parts, like a rocker arm or bent/damaged push rod. You have to take a look. The noise is not caused by a leaking valve cover, unless you let the oil level get very low. Whatever you do, don't simply tighten down on a rocker adjustment. That can make things worse. Find out why you have clearance that is causing noise.

Are you sure it is a lifter and not just a loud injector? Have you ruled out everything else that ticks with a stethescope?

Larry is right - normally these engines are very quiet, and no, a valve cover leak would not make any noise.

So if it is a damaged pushrod or rocker arm, the whole top of the motor would have to come apart right?

Before you pull the engine, be sure you use a mech's stethoscope with funnel attachment. I know you say it's definately not an exhaust leak, but until you sniff around with a scope, it's hard to say anything is definite. Just my 2 cents...