Maybe just be happy that the noise is gone and You don't have an engine problem.
The rockers make noise (tick) this perfectly normal on a 22re.
Very happy to hear that the correctly tightened valve cover corrected your issue. Sorry to hear about the rear main seal leak. Did You use the engine builder rear main seal and rear main plate gasket.
I have to say it again
"Don't use the engine builder gasket set"
I sure hope You didn't use their timing cover gaskets. If so You can expect that to be the next leak.
Hang in there Gnarly.....
