American Motors: Pacer Engine Noise, coolant system, rocker arms

Question
I have a 1975 Pacer with the 258 I6.  The engine has 244,989 miles on it (un-
rebuilt) and it has a loud ticking/rattling noise.  I was told it is just worn lifters
and there nothing to worry about in the near future.  All the maintenance  has
been kept up on the engine and I just recently had a new exhaust manifold,
new water pump, new EGR and PCV valve put on.  The timing was adjusted,
new plugs, cap, and rotor were installed.  Carburetor was rebuilt and the
coolant system was flushed.  I want to know if I am able to take the car on
long trips with the noisy lifters or if I should have them replaced beforehand.

Answer
It is possible the lifters are noisy, but more likely the rocker arms and rocker arm bridges are the culprit.
They used a cheap set up for the valve train consisting of a stamped steel rocker arm and an aluminum bridge that secured the rocker arms.
12 rocker arms and 6 bridges. They are fairly easy to replace, but will require removal of the valve cover to gain access.
A lot cheaper than replacing lifters.