Thermoquad idle issue

Lifters were pumped up prior to install and preload was between .030"-.040". Valve train is not noisy at all. Engine has non-adjustable rockers
my concern was that there was too much preload on the lifters, and some intakes hanging slightly open. if that were so, there would be no noise, either. How do you know they are all .030 to .040? How did you measure them?
FWIW, not a fan of pumping up the lifters before assembly.