I didn't measure the gap, I judged it with my eye
When I use the old tappet (longer) with the new pump, I can't turn the engine over as the tappet in the pump will bottom out and it doesn't have anywhere to go.
So the new pump cant be used with the longer tappet.
But my question is: Why doesn't the new pump with its tappet reach the cam?
Very odd, considering that the old type pumps and tappets are out of stock / not made anymore.