[Paul Spotts]

You can not check that way with a hydraulic lifter unless you "make it" solid. Unless it is pumped up - but here is what I do: Get an old lifter. (that is not worn out) take it apart and replace the spring with aluminum foil or what ever to keep the plunger from going down. Of course this is not necessary with solid lifters.
On Hydraulic roller motors, I use the same fake solid lifter with a corresponding (longer) pushrod
- not the hyd roller pushrod that is much shorter.

Also do not use the head gasket if the piston is below deck. Then you can add the compressed head gasket thickness to the clay method (like .040).
If the piston is above deck - you must use a gasket or the piston will touch the head and not allow the engine to rotate.

turn the motor over (by hand) at least 2 complete revolutions so the cam will turn at least once.

Its easier to start at TDC on the compression stroke so both valves are closed.

you should have over .080 clearance

your also should not even be close to having any issues with that cam.

more details on Comp web site.

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