Nice work. Glad to see you got it running again. I understand about using the entire Clearwater set up, but save your original cam and rocker assembly if you still have it. Try a ZDDP additive. It’s intended for engines with slipper rockers like ours. Might extend the life of the Chinese cam. The ticking should quiet down quickly. Enjoy the fruits of your labor.

Were you able to determine if it was the head or head gasket that failed?