Denny... you are da man!
I figure it this way: I'll check first for correct firing order, then for vacuum leaks around the intake and throttle body, then check for other vacuum leaks. If all is well, I'll reset the timing (i'm figuring that 12* btdc is where i had it set before the push rod problem... it ran great, btw). If necessary, I'll pull the valve covers and re-adjust using your procedures for adjusting them with engine running. Currently no clatter, but if they're not really tight enough, (or too tight) there would be rough running, right?
Does this sound like a good way to go? Too much? Too little?
Thanks again...
btw... Do you know where Marengo is?