2.0 L /diagnostics help needed

[Timas]

Hello everyone,
I am at a loss for what to do.
I rebuilt my motor(first time) over a year ago now; and could never get her to start. Finally waived the white flag and paid +$1k for a shop to to try and get her running. They were able to go from no compression to starts, runs very briefly (according to them ,) stumbles, makes sounds (I am not sure how to exactly how to describe the sound) then they immediately turn it off . They are afraid it may detonate.
I haven't tried to turn it over myself.
Things to note:
1) Before I split the case I had about 1-1300 miles on the engine before I dropped #3 valve.
2) split case, replaced crank / cam bearings (replaced w/factory spec stock sizes)
3) Replaced piston rings (factory spec stock)
4) Replaced 1 cylinder (I do not remember exactly which cylinder # ; cuz I cracked /broke off several fins during tear down
5) New AMC heads
6) push rods/ rockers/rocker arms reused
7) everything was checked for clearance and ability to move freely at all stages of short block rebuild

Stated issues by mechanic
1) no available adjustment on 1 lifter
2) unsure of oil starvation for cause of "sound"