They're alive and well. They are better at thier jobs, but require some homework and you have to buy the retainers and locks - which would be an added expense some epople don't like. They do reduce valvetrain weight but in most circumstances that is a very small advantage. It probably should be something anyone running a hdyraulic roller camshaft should be doing as a trade off for the heavier lifter. The better attributes are better valve control with less spring pressure and wider operating range.
