I now have the engine purring like a kitten. I readjusted the valve clearance while the engine was fully warmed up. No clacking nor misses. Temperature needle is holding steady between the 8 and the 0 of the 180 on the original gauge just like every 216 and 235 that I have ever owned and driven. The oil pressure is at 14 pounds.
I believe that I need to stop buying multimeters at the Dime Store.
I am now moving on to the Engine Forum for specific engine questions.
Come on over, it'll be fun.

1952 5-window - return to "as built" condition | 1950 3100 with a 235 and a T-5 transmission