So is most of your complaints with hyd roller lifters? What could have changed thru the years that make them fail now more than 30 years ago? Do you think maybe its operator error? Improper installation? Or do you think its just poor manufacturing?
I believe it's all of the above, throw in crappy modern day oil and you have a real mess.
In particular, hydraulic and roller should never be used in the same phrase, kinda like jumbo shrimp.
I was told a a renowned engine builder that the aftermarket hydraulic components cant handle the pressure made by the steep ramps on a roller cam.