That's the fresh air inlet. There's no PCV. If pieces broke and fell inside, pulling the cover would be the best way to ensure you pick up 100% of the broken pieces. Otherwise, they'll likely flow down into the pan.

 

Thanks - Much appreciated! Not trying to be lazy, bit if they are tiny pieces and flow down into the pan, would that create any issues with the motor? It's just that the valve cover and gasket have a great seal, no leaks and no issues, so I hate to take that off if not needed. But if they could cause any damage, I definitely will. Thanks again!

 

If I was sure small plastic and rubber debris got in there, I would pull the valve cover and clean it out. Better safe than sorry. My 2 cents.

 

Ya, after thinking about it, I picked up a new gasket and will take that off and knock it out this weekend. Appreciate the feedback!

 

Your oil pickup screen, will let tiny pieces through and end up in the oil filter. The larger pieces cold restrict the screen. Buy a suction gun to inhale the pieces in the overhead. When you drain the oil from the gun, pour it through cheese cloth, to see what you recovered.