mlclark~ I totally agree with you regarding the angle rotation of the rocker arm. I drew it out before. There's no way to shim it to stay on the valve as it moves up and down.
Where I need to shim is between the rocker arm itself and it's post. If I can find a washer like deal that fits the rocker shaft, I can use that to shim the arm. I should of clarified the direction of shimage <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/shiner.gif" alt="" />.

I did find something to throw more money at... '1995 Rodeo with the mysterious 3-piece tranny. I paid $600 bucks for it from a cleaning company. Runs champ 93K on the ODO, 2.6L, Dana 44 rear, spare tire, and a full tank of GAS!
Just need to change the power steering gearbox seal and some door handles.

pucci~ Looks like they won't work with the setup I have. It may be possible if you use a different combination of retainers/keepers/springs. I don't have much left on the valve stem to keep them in place. Thanks for the pics though.