so i got rid of the hitting problem. i used an aluminum timing cover. no mor hitting. now i have a bigger issue. #8 exhaust valve does not have as much lift as the other exhaust valves. it was starting to make noise after i fixed the timing cover issue. this is a # 7162 flat tappet edelbrock cam. i wanted a roller but this is how the top end kit came. this engine is driving me crazy. i will be pulling the intake tomorrow to check wear for a lobe worn off. it only has 2 hours of running time. this shouldn't be happening