David’s advice may seem extreme, but speaking from experience not necessarily a waste of time to perform
building my 404 Cleveland stroker was far from the smooth endeavor I had hoped for, with a very experienced local engine builder I had dealt with previously. Luckily I pulled a valve cover to inspect the push rod guide plates, an area I had cautioned the builder to pay special attention to.
😡😡😡
Long story short I took the engine to my second choice local builder who did a complete tear down, check and recheck and proper reassembly.
YMMV
Larry