[Rippin-J]

Took the valve covers off of my 396 for the first time today to attempt a valve adjustment. To my surprise I noticed some rather large holes next to half of the push rods (all on the intake side). The holes were all on the (lookers) left of the #1, #5, #4, and #8 intake valves.

the motor has been running, albeit rough, so I am not sure when/how these happened.

How are these caused? Are they catastrophic? Is this considered normal? What should my course of action be at this point? !!!

Thanks!