Damage from lifters?

[Festively Jolly]

hey trusty list :)

my lifters are have been getting allot worse lately.  I have an
appointment for a full replacement of them in 1 day so yeah...

ANYHOO,   i had been forced to drive this ticking car for about 4 months
with these bad lifters.  a few days ago i noticed a slightly different
exjuast note.  kinda raspy, like a bigger hole.  over the  last couple
days it has gotten worse (louder)  BUT the exhuast is spankin new.   all
i can think of is something came loose, OR *maybe*  the lifters did
something?? just a thaught? anyone have any insight?

car is a 1988 Audi 90 fwd