Triumph Repair: Bent push rods, push rods, rocker arm

Question
I am new to rebuilding a '76 TR6 and not a good mechanic.  After 15 years, we finally have the car running...good oil pressure, strong engine, no smoke....did not have to take the engine apart to get it going.  However, every morning when I try to crank it, one or two push rods dislodge or bend.  Usally, it is the #6 or #7...this morning it was #3.  When I reset the setting on the rocker arm, I can crank it and runs great.  I have been running a detergent and mystery oil in the car for a few days trying to loosen old deposit.  Any ideas of what is causing the problem? Thanks

Answer
I had to think about this one. As a rule if an engine sits about 3 or more years i go into it and start over. i think your lifters or the bottom of the rockers are gunked up enough to hold onto them so they slip out. the method you are trying might help. i know some people put a little diesel fuel in the oil to do the same cleaning but i don't know what amount.would guess no more than a quart and wouldn't run it long. even adding about a pint of liquid WD-40 might help. DM