Need Engine Advice....Again

[WarpathEngineering]

So I'm getting ready to put my K20 into hibernation and am trying to come up with a game plan for winter engine repairs.

I had already planned on replacing the front and rear main seals (leaking) and with them, the oil pump, water pump, timing chain & various gaskets. Then, when I was out driving it the other day, I came off the interstate and one (or more) of my lifters started to really tick. Since I've had the truck it's had a cold start knock & lifter tick until the oil pumps up (reason for the oil pump) and then it goes right away. Haven't thought too much about the knock until now because it only knocks on start up.

So question #1 is what is this knock and how do I correct it?

Since the lifter/s are ticking, lifters & push rods are on the list. I guess now would be a good time to think about replacing the cam.

Question # 2 any suggestions on a mild driver cam for an original 78 350 with 40K miles?

Questions #3 is this just a waste of time because I need an engine?