[blykins]

Set the intake valve when the exhaust valve is starting to open. Set the exhaust valve when the intake valve is starting to close. That ensures that the lifter is on the base of the lobe.

When you get there, loosen the adjuster up. I don't look for how freely the pushrod spins....there are too many variables there. I "feel" for how much axial play (lash) there is in the pushrod. When I get to zero lash, then depending on what rockers/lifters I have (not including short travel lifters), I go anywhere from 1/2 to 3/4 turn past that.

Just take your time and sneak up on it. The biggest part is making sure that the lifters is on the base of the lobe and that you have a feel for when you get to zero lash.