Only way the tapping stays stopped is if I max out the valve nut wich clearly isn't right
Are you properly setting the valve lash?
Did you checkout the link I posted for you in my last post?
If so then a quick trick to try...
With the valve covers off and engine idling take a hammer with either a wooden or rubber handle. Using the handle push down with a little pressure on the rocker arm just above the push rod. If the clatter goes away try a bit more pressure. If it seems you were able to push down a bit more the hydraulic lifters could be worn out.
To check if the rocker nuts are loosening up, run the motor and watch if you see the nuts loosening up. Trick, mark the nut with something so you can see if the mark turns.
