2002 Ford Escort valve cover gasket

I plan to replace the valve cover gasket on a '02 Ford Escort ZX2, 4 cyl VTEC engine. How delicate is it to move the cruise cables running over the top of the cover and, after removal and cleaning of the old gasket, is there any special sealants required when installing the new gasket. Do you install the gasket and all of the O rings right out of the box?
Thanks for any help