Starting my engine build

[davepl]

I assume you meant pushrods, not "rods" as in piston rods in that one part.

I would practice degreeing the cam 3-4 different lifters and see if you get the same answer each time!

Also make sure the dial indicator's probe is on a hard edge or clip of the lifter - if you let it go down inside you can get a false reading if the hydraulic lifter collapses a little during your work.