Don't get too bummed out.  I am almost postive that your problem is that the
pushrod is not centered in the lifter properly.  I bought a Vanagon that
wouldn't run at all after the PO redid the head gaskets and he got frustrated
and sold it to me.  I checked the motor and sure enough at least half of the
rods were cocked (holding one or the other valve open) and the motor had 0
compression on all 4 cylinders.  Two hours later the motor was cranked up and
humming.  That guy is still kicking himself over that one (and I am still
driving the van!)
Get glad!
Ken Wilford
John 3:16