Is this an acceptable alternative?

With the engine at TDC, I have removed the valve springs and have a zip tie around the valve stem holding the valve in place. Measure stem height. Depress valve to touching piston and measure stem height. Subtract the two, add head gasket thickness and subtract cam's lift.

I know this doesn't take into account any manufacturing tolerances and rotational dynamics, but if I come up with 0.080 to 0.100" amount I should be ok. Right?

What should I expect as far as cranking cylinder pressure. I may check this prior to firing the engine.

Thanks for the advice!

p.s. How are you doing Pat? Back to 100%?