I had been hearing a ticking noise that i first though was an exhaust but never went away. After tightening and tightening and tightening exhaust manifold bolts i decided to pull off the passenger side valve cover. After removal I fund the exhaust side rocker on the #2 cylinder scorched with a little bit of caked up oil on the locking nut. I need some pointers. Nothing looks bent damaged or anything. I'm wondering if I have a collapsed lifter. The pushrod is still straight. I also noticed all the exhaust rockers are a bit darker than the intake.

Only +or- 10 miles 380 on the odometer. All these parts were brand new when installed.