What are good tips for flying across Tejon pass?
I cross that pass on my commute twice a week in my VariEze at altitudes between 5500 and 11500 ft depending on winds and clouds. There's nothing to be particularly nervous about, there's rarely any noticeable turbulence if you're at 7500 or higher.  You can check the Sandberg AWOS and forecast winds aloft, and ask L.A. Center or Bakersfield Approach for ride reports.

I do tend to be flying that route either fairly early in the morning or around dusk, so it may be bumpy more often in the heat of the early afternoon.

If clouds are forcing you down to 5500 be sure not to accidentally fly up the wrong valley when headed north!