ok, thanks for the info. so here is the deal.

the motor is a complete rebuild. its only been ran by the builder on a stand and then by me as stated before. so i can assume, (jokes aside) that this was due to a builder error?

also, i was able to remove the side inspection cover and can see the bent rod off the lifter. i was also able to peak in the cylinder with my buddies snap-on camera and it looks intact. so what else should i be looking for? if a stuck valve was the problem that bent the rod, can i just replace the rod? the rocker is also pushed some what off the valve.does the motor need to come out and start over? if i can leave it in, do i need to pull the head? what else could be damaged?

thanks for all the help