i did a search, and from what i read, valve lash grows at operating temperature. my cam calls for .010 lash hot, so if i set it at .008 cold i should be ok? this is the first car ive had that needs lash adjustment and i want to be sure its right. as is, there is noticeable ticking.

thanks all    sb

Set it cold then re-check when it is hot. Note the ones that are off and re-adjust when cold unless you do not mind hot oil.

The factory service manual lists the valve clearance as:

             In             Ex

Hot     0.010"     0.012"

Cold  0.008"     0.010"

thank you guys

For what it's worth 

I have never heard a non ticking L series engine 

they all make some valve train noise

It's only the clock that eventually stops ticking... so that you can hear the valves better.