Alright so finally finished this repair. Everything checks out and it runs beautifully. Was certainly not an easy repair. But saved about $1000 dollars and learned a lot. The timing components were in terrible condition to say the least. Turns out 190,000 miles on the vehicle causes a lot of wear. The sound coming from the engine was caused by a few broken off parts. Needless to say, the sound is gone and it runs great and very quiet. Would be happy to answer anyone's questions if you are thinking about doing this! Pictures to follow. Before and afters should be obvious. Also, changed valve cover gaskets and grommets and a few other gaskets and obviously the timing cover seal. Changed the oil and decided to go with synthetic and an oil stabilizer. So far so good on that and should be beneficial.