Thanks a million for the replies everyone. I have been debating on doing it myself w/ an insert, w/ a new primary cover as well as debating just taking it to HD. (They've been very supportive of me in the past.) With your reassurances I am confident I can remove and reinstall the primary on my own (i.e. with someone drinking beer, supervising, and saying "don't do that!") I agree with the advice that an insert will push my mechanical abilities farther than I am comfortable, unless someone is in the area that can supervise the process and I will also look into ordering a new primary cover.
I am in Portland, OR if anyone is available to help with this one. No rush, as I'm going to be out of town for the next three weekends (it shouldn't be a problem if the bike sits in this condition for about a month, should it?)
Anyway, thanks again, and I will be bumping this thread in a few weeks looking for local assistance. Your further input is, of course, also welcome!