With all the engine turning, why not fill the crankcase with oil so you get lubrication to the bearings? Also, how did you prelude the camshaft? Before starting again, pull each lifter and add some more camshaft break-in grease to the bottom of each lifter and then limit the amount of crank rotation to only what is needed to adjust the lifters. If there is a question of correct parts being used, pull all lifters except the ones used for set-up. This will keep the camshaft break-in grease on the other lobes while you fiddle with the set-up and test lifter / push rods.
And fill the lifters, it will make your job much easier.
