Thanks tortron
I think it's worse with a hot engine -- will listen on next cold startup -- any easy way to check oil pressure (?) was planning to remove the eng oil pan to remove caked on gunk -- better look at rod slop movement if there is a way & torque check the main bearing cap bolts (?) -- install new oil pan gasket -- hope there are no oil leaks at front or rear seals X'd fingers -- just want the super nasty oil pan clean before installing eng splash shield & skid plate that have been powder coated -- blah blah -- steering gear box needs replacing too before putting things back together ($ dang $ pit $)

Google seems to say use Marvel Mystery Oil to clean lifters -- I dunno (?) what do you think is best product for engine flush..? <--- do flush before removing oil pan... Maybe I am looking at having to replace lifter/tappets AND valve stem seals..? <--- only if this can be done W/O removing cylinder head (?) Have yet to look for blue smoke on startup BUT this engine uses more oil than any other vehicles I've owned...

Glad I was never a mechanic in life <--- to difficult 4me