302 stepchild needing some valvetrain guidance

I guess I never realized there was an actual torque spec to the stock rocker arms, but I guess it would make sense on an assembly line. Since I've never rebuilt a stock engine, where does the nut stop to read torque? Is it at the end of the threads or are the rockers supposed to bottom out? I don't remember the rockers bottoming out, but it's been a lot of years since I've seen a stock valve train setup. So that would lead me to believe the nuts are bottoming out on the threads.

In that case, it sounds like you'll need some round shims or maybe a washer or two. You'll also most likely need a new locking nut to use with the rockers since you'll most likely not be using a torque spec. Then you'd have to go about adjusting the rockers as most any other aftermarket rocker is adjusted: assure the valve you're working on is fully closed. Tighten the rocker nut while spinning the push rod until you feel minimal up/down movement and there is a slight drag. Don't over-tighten as you will start to compress the hydraulic lifter. Move on to the next valve and repeat. If you need further guidance there are YouTube videos on how to do this. You'll ignore torque specs using this method and you'll need to ensure that your rocker nut isn't able to back out which is why I suggested new locking nuts.

This is all assuming your valve train geometry is right. In your case I'd imagine the stock push rods you pulled from the engine are correct. Hopefully this helped point you in the right direction. Good luck!