Well I guess we all come from different worlds. I am poor and have to use cheap,used parts to be able to hot rod, unlike you guys, obviously. I hoped I could find useful tips on this site, but it seems it's no different than any ricer forum out there! But for anyone that is actually interested in helping someone out, would I be able to use a lifter checking tool, placed in the lifter's place, and with a dial indicator, and degree wheel, find lobe lift,duration,etc.? Help from anyone that knows more than just " throw it away and spend some money that you don't have" would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Dave.