Engine question

[Buffy]

I installed all the new parts, checked and re-checked and double checked the timing marks. Pulled the pin, crossed my fingers and fired it up...... Nothing changed! The knock is still there just as before. Rev the motor and it stops briefly but will go back to the tapping/knocking. Any ideas?? It really doesn't sound like the engine. Do I remove the passenger head? Does anyone have a write-up on how to check the valve lash???

[Buffy]

After reading the service manual, I decided to pull the plugs on at a time and see if it caused the noise to change (per the manual). It did not change the sound of the knocking at all. Now here's the interesting part, after testing I refired the engine with all plugs connected and it ran quiet for about 30 seconds before the knocking began again.