Yes. Each time a piston is at TDC( on the compression stroke), both cam lobes will be facing downwards on a 45ยบ angle. That is when the valve train should no longer have any pressure on that cylinder valve train parts. That is when you adjust your clearances.
When you put together any engine always turn it over one full rotation by hand with the plugs out! If it stops for any reason do not continue to turn it.
I am sorry that this happened to you.
It certainly explains why there was no compression.
Well, it happens. Luckily, I had a spare valve head, so I was able to remedy the situation with relative ease. I got the parts back from the shop last week, and only had to pay labor so could have been worse.
In terms of the post, I too was wondering why I had zero compression after my previous rebuild, and eventually I made the bent valves discovery. I know its been mentioned here already, but this could be the problem.
