[Healeys] tappets - the pits :-(

[john spaur]

Are tappet pits okay? This is really embarrassing!

I just sent my rocker arm and tappets to a well known re-builder. 
Several tappets had what I thought was extensive pitting. This 
occurred after 1000 miles or so since resurfacing them. However, the 
engine was not run since 2003 due to other issues. BTW, there was no 
rust on them, just a well coated oil surface after eight years of 
benign neglect!

The re-builder told me that the pitting was minor and typical; 
meaning that it might reoccur after another resurfacing.

What causes tappet pitting? The cam looks fine. Could it be that the 
tappets, are not rotating in their bores?

I want to solve this problem!

Help!!

John Spaur
'62 BT7