Whats the best way to tighten a pushrod thats loose?

 

you don't really tighten the push rod you tighten the rocker nut, guess you really know that right? run the engine and loosen till it starts to tick then tighten till it stops then go another 1/2 to 3/4 turn more

 

The actual specification is that the lifter needs .030" preload. To get this or at least very close to it the piston must be at TDC so both valves are closed. Loosen off both rockers and allow the plunger in the lifter to rise for a minute or so. Tighten the rocker nut until the rocker snugs up on the pushrod. Don't overtighten. Some people like the "until the pushrod doesn't spin" method. Even I don't like doing that. I can spin the pushrod when there's pressure on it. When the rocker is loose you can rattle the pushrod or move it up and down slightly. Just enough pressure from the rocker to stop this movement is all that's required.

The lifter is now at zero preload lash. Now turn the rocker nut 1/2 turn. This is about as close to .030" lifter preload as you're going to get. Don't worry if you can still turn the pushrod after setting the lash. That's just the way a hydraulic lifter works. Go to the next cylinder and repeat.

If your lifters are still noisy after this valve set then there's a good chance you have a collapsed lifter or a cam lobe is wiped out.