Normally "slight" rubbing ( as you seem to be explaining ) isnt a huge issue. I am a Manton WD dealer and they recommend only .010 clearance and many times the slight rubbing is fine. I used to over-clearance these areas but have since changed my ways and found it to be better.Its not a problem to have that support, but I would also guess that a thicker walled pushrod could be a good thought in your case knowing somethings about your combo and ET as you have posted before.