curious about valve lash setting/check

I believe you are right sir, that's why I asked, and am so glad to have the help you all have offered.

I think he's right, too. However, if you have the incorrect pushrods, for instance, if you have pushrods for solid lifters, they are shorter than those needed for hydraulic lifters with adjustable rockers, so that could explain the adjusters running out of room as well. Generally when they are adjusted right, with the correct length pushrods, you won't have any more than about 3 threads showing on the bottom side of the rocker at the pushrod.