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Did you know that when adjusting an engine with mechanical lifters, truly the only way to accurately go about it is with a dial indicator?

Yes, an indicator placed at the right position on the lever can accurately measure the movement of the rocker arm better than a feeler gauge (which is largely subjective). I have seen crusty old guys who can just tap the rocker back and forth and adjust it based on the noise it makes. I can tell if it is way off but am not able to provide a precise measurement. I am jealous of that skill honestly.

One thing I do a little different than many people is intentionally give more clearance than necessary on the exhaust valve. This is after observing the exhaust clearance tolerance becoming way too tight in between services on certain machines, which is of course an indicator of valve seat recession.

My profesional opinion on this is that the increased back pressure from modern turbocharged emissions equipped engines will cause a little more exhaust valve seat wear than normal. I don't know if manufacturers keep this in mind when they design valve seats or not but I imagine they must as it would be stupid not to. Actually since they sell reman components, I doubt they give a shit. Caterpillar themselves sell engines at near breakeven because they know they'll always make a killing in parts. And I always do recommend getting OEM cat parts or actually IPD is pretty decent as well.

I'm sure @Rotteuxx as a metal worker has some useful info to add as far as valve seat materials and heat wear etc.