I dropped the two bolts for the flywheel cover, but couldn't manage to get it to come off. Is there something I am missing? It looks like it won't come out without removing the pan, but I am trying to determine just where this oil leak is coming from! I have pics on my recent post...Thanks for any advice!

Yes, please continue with your original post.

I had oil leaks originally from valve covers when I bought the 97 PA in Feb. Once they were replaced, still more oil visible at pan bottom. Last week while on lift installing the TransGo 4t65e shift kit, I had a good look around and found that the oil pressure sensor has a visible leak there. This is going to be a process of fix what is leaking above, eliminating all leaks sooner than later.
In my case it is hard to tell if the pan gasket is leaking. I am going to need some serious cleaner, power wash to all the steering /cooler lines and rags to dry after the new oil pressure sensor goes in.
Yup this is next before I determine it to still need an oil pan gasket.

Where is the oil pressure sensor located? That might be one of my problems also!

Immediately above the oil filter. Look for the wire going to a connector.

My Local Canadian GM dealer is quoting me $71 (that is with a discount) for my 97PA oil pan gasket.
I definitely on next change need to install it as leaking a bit + some.
Ok if I remove the pick up tube, is there a separate gasket there that is needed as well?
Was thinking to remove the pick up tube and clean it out good while in there.
As Dan mentioned I will crank it over good without starting first, to prime it.

At 91 k miles now. Yup car is almost 16yrs old.
Both Valve Cover gaskets replaced, new oil pressure sensor to fix leak there too.
This was after wiping around the oil pan.

I also have sweat from UIM bolts. GM'* run & leak good!
Oh well what else do I have to do on weekends anyways....

In Army aviation, they had a saying with the CH-47 helicopters(the big twin rotor head ones). "If its not leaking any oil anywhere, don't fly it until you do find one". Apparently, they were notorious for leaking oil and bad things happened if they stopped leaking oil.

Picked Up the Fel-Pro gasket & on the next oil change going to install this bad boy.
It comes with Pick up gasket too, Thanks Fel-Pro !
According to instructions not further goop is needed except maybe in corners to hold it in place while u bolt it in.
One less oil leak on the Park Ave soon....
Will take a few removal/install pics on next oil change...more to follow

Watching and waiting for the pics, and to hear how tough the job was, eventually I'll be doing mine I'm sure.