Great information.
However, I know at least with me, the issue comes down to the leak down tester itself. A vacuum gauge is about $15 - $20. A compression tester is about the same. But a good leak down tester is around $50 - $80 and requires one to have an air compressor.
Definitely a definitive test, but not a cheap investment.

 

I'll forget about the Chevy rocker arms. I'm sure my rockers would be bolt down. Sometimes I can find a good deal on auto tools on Amazon that are open box items. Take my me OTC compression tester for example, I have heard it is the same set as a Matco set since some say that OTC makes Matcos. The set I bought I got for $40 shipped open box. The cheapest on eBay was $64 shipped. That's the cheapest, some wanted up to $85 for and the Matco equivalent goes for much more. I might see if I can borrow a leak down set from a mechanic or maybe I'll even buy one. Time will tell.

 

Several auto parts stores 'rent' leak down testers. In the case of Autozone, you pay a rental fee but then get it back when you return the item. So, free use of a leak down tester.

You do need a compressor to use one. I usually assume folks that work on vehicles have compressors, but I can see how that is an invalid assumption.

Short of being able to do it yourself, I'd have the shop do that test before tearing into the engine. I don't know what labor they would charge for such a test though. I'm sure it would be less expensive than tearing into the engine.

 

Bolt down (pedestal) rockers started in late '86 I believe, as they were preparing to go to EFI.
As for ones with studs, I think there are two different diameter studs, depending on the year.


I'd love a compressor, but they're not a cheap investment. Plus, there's always the factor of having to have a place to store one.

 

I have a decent oil air compressor but I've always wanted a bigger two stage but this one isn't bad. And I got a deal on a Reelcraft air hose reel for it too which is so nice not having to deal with a messy hose all of the time. The problem with Autozone is that the closest one is 75 miles from me and I only go to that town to shop once a month. If they let me keep it that long and still get my money back that might be the thing to do. Mechanics are cheap up here. I know one who is a go getter at only $35 an hour. He could do the leak down I'm sure.