Well, I got the lifters all cleaned out.  I took them all apart and
cleaned with carburetor cleaner and various "tools".  By the time I did
the last one it only took me 10 minutes...and finally figured out how to
get the little ball bearing out (just pry off the little check valve
housing with a small screwdriver).  In terms of wear, I cannot see how
there could be too much wear in the check valve mechanism.  Where I did
see wear was on the bottom of the lifters, where they contact the cam
lobs.  There were also a few very small spots on some pistons that
seemed to be "blemished" but not pitted and I will try to see if my
dremell with a wire brush will clean them up.  They were definitely
dirty, but were not giving me any troubles before I started this
project...I hope this does not turn out to be a case of "don't fix
what's not broken"...  

Pascal
'84 Westy