My mistake. Yes they are called cam followers. Have two broken cam followers on my garage bench now. I am still not sure of the latest diagnosis on the problem here. I should know for sure after the valve spring has been replaced. The story goes that the springs can weaken if the engine sets for a long time with that valve in the open position. At least that is what the mechanics tell me. I did a search on the threads and did not find anything here either.
In any event with the lash set properly the "ticking" is still very pronounced. I used a stethescope and it is definetly coming for that same valve/ cam follower. Stop the engine and check the lash and it is just fine. So I am told most likely the spring is shot.