i haven't seen a rear timing chain cover before but if my guess is right, the noise was probably your CVTC (variable valve timing) actuator or solenoid due to insufficient oil pressure. The change in engine response and behaviour is a direct result. It's a metallic ticking noise and it's pretty much as you described - litle valves rattling.
Would running 0w40 have contributed to blowing the gasket since it's a bit thicker when at operating temp? Thicker oil can create higher pressure. But a lot of folks are running 0w40 and 5w40 with no issue.... I'm running 5w40 and it's restored my CVTC functionality at 4k+ rpm. I might need new solenoids in the future. Prior to this oil change, i was using genuine Nissan full synthetic 5w30 oil.
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