Engine Valve train "gunk"

[CJ7Simon]

1983 CJ7 AMC 258 i6 / 4.2l L inline 6
I would appreciate some advice. I want to address my leaking valve cover (gasket), so I removed the cover and found that the entire valve train is filthy with a thick gunk (see pictures). #1. Does that mean the oil pump is not lubricating this area well enough? #2. What I really want to know is if this condition can be cleaned without removing the head. I'd appreciate your guidance.

Simon

 

[Manic Mechanic]

You need to change your oil more often that's sludge

 

[CJ7Simon]

Thanks for your reply. I do understand that, and in the six months I've owned it the oil's probably been changed monthly. My neighbor sold it to me after sitting unused in his driveway for 6 years. He was hopeful of making this a father son project until he realized he had no skills!

Any thoughts about safely cleaning it?