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I spent last Sunday afternoon putting things back together. Piston rings were "clocked" at the bench. I ended up using a large sewing needle to move the oil-ring pieces. I pre-shimmed on the bench.. This worked out well. I need to buy 6 new shims but the shims that are in these specific valves at least allow the cams to be installed. NOTE: You can not rotate the cams without ALL shims (any size shims) in place. The cam-lobe(s) will become "trapped" in the empty lifters !   
The cams, being independent without the cam-chain, wanted to self rotate so I made this.  Well worth the two hours. 

    

Pistons went back onto the rods with no issues but OCD made me confirm multiple times that the cir-clips were all in and seated and that I had "6 arrows" pointing forward. ....and checked the ring clocking....... again !
The piston-ring compressors I made, worked like a charm  Removing them from their respective pistons easy, due to the spring-clamps relatively small size. and the flexibility of the compression band. Any trepidation I had about getting the pistons into the bores immediately vanished when the first pair (3 & 4) went in. The remaining 2 pair ?   Easy !
Taking a break to post this and then -  installing the ignition housing and some other small bits and pieces.
"Touch Wood" - the remaining assembly goes as well.

 

"This close" !  And now waiting on exhaust gaskets !

 

You’ve made good progress, scotch.   
Excellent work with that cam sprocket holder.
Have you painted the cylinder block / head?  It looks good.
How did installation of the cam chain roller and chain go?

I feel uncomfortable seeing the cams in with the chain on and no cam caps on

Hmmmm, Intake manifold test port above #5-6 intake tract. Interesting mod.

Me likee nickle looking frame!

Regarding cam chain, no caps.. my bet is no tension on chain from tensioner yet?

Really clean install Sir Scotch. Ready for another engine to work on? Oh SNAP, too early to ask?