This is my first time using pedestal roller rocker arms,I usually go the stud mount route. My question is, how much clearance should I have on the pushrods...should they spin freely or have some resistance with the valve fully closed? I have shims available if I need them.
There should be a small amount of preload on the lifter. As per my crane rocker instructions (not sure if/how much others differ) you have the right amount of preload w/in tolerance if you tighten the rocker down finger tight until it contacts the valve stem and pushrod and then torque. If the bolt turns more than 1 full turn w/out torquing add a shim to lessen the preload until in spec. If it torques down in under 1/4 turn you would need longer pushrods