sbc lifter question

Hello out there to everyone!

Got a question need some advice. Pulled my engine out of my boat to replace freeze plugs that leaked. Compression was low on 2 cylinders so pulled heads to get them checked out. While cleaning the head gaskit material off block using air compressor to blow off. one of the keepers on one of the lifter blew out. I'm not sure how the lifter works but I assume it is compressed and this keeper keeps it compressed. Is this correct? My question is if this lifter is not compressed would this cause engine to miss or what effect would it cause?

Thanks all.
Leonard.

:D Most likely, if it was not compressed you would get a tapping noise. I would replace the lifter (it's OK to replace just that one) and be happy it didn't happen under power.

Are they roller lifters ....?