318 hydraulic lifter preload.

This isn't a budget build but keeping cost down is important. This 318 is temporary until I can afford to build a 360. I was unable to find .010 longer push rods that I was sure would work so I bought stock length rods hoping it would take up the clearances I needed, it did not. I did find a few .030 over pushrods but not a full set. .030 should get all of the lifters in the mid range of spec.

It looks like there is no way around measuring each lifter preload and getting a custom set of push rods made.

As far as surfacing the heads go, that's why I didn't go with a thinner gasket, I am trying to keep costs down on this build. If it ends up being a mistake in the long run, well, I guess it will be another learning experience, ie: it cost me money. At this point, I would be ruining the head gaskets to take the heads off, too late. If the heads don't seal, I'll cuss myself later for it........as I'm doing an R&R.