SB, If you mean that the valves are "closed" you're right.
What you mean by "the nut" , please clarify.
There's plenty of reading to do in the Technical section on your part, taking the headcover off you may find under
Savage "Plug/Cap" Leak.
Also the instruction of the valveclearance adjustment would be beneficial for you to read. No offense.
Greetz
Kropatchek