new lifter ?

to check the cam for unusual wear, just pull the valve covers and go from there.

i had a ticking noise too, and i pulled all my lifters out witout removing the intake. i did however remove the roller rockers, and pushrods. i used one of those bendable claws that you can get at dollar store. worked great , save me some money and time

i was also able to look through and see that the cam was in great shape