[Wbulk]

It would be interesting to see if those two push rods are bent. Roll them on a counter to see if they are straight. You can collect all your parts to see if your are missing any others that would be in the pan. Finding the cause is the challenge. I would still check the lifter adjustment (preload) on another lifter like I discussed earlier.

Putting the distributor back in is more involved that just taking it out like you did. Those gears have to mesh on the right one and it rotates to adjust the timiing. Ask for help when you get to that point.

I think a lot of guys are not using those fel-pro gaskets anymore for the intake. I think those ones you have on there have had problems with those rubber seals.
Wayne