If I have recently done the oilpan gasket (single rubber 1 piece)...is it till necessary to cut the front of the gasket when doing the timechain install? Seems like it would be better to leave it there than cut it and put a partial back with RTV in the corners?

 

If you can get the timing cover off without messing up the gasket, then I don't see any reason why you couldn't get away with not cutting it off.