Lifter preload...more or less?

Why is the valve train noisy? Taking the shims (rocker shaft shims I assume) out adds to the preload. If you already have 0.125" preload I don't see how adding more preload would quiet things down. I could see it if you had zero or less preload to start.
I probably had very little lash with the shims.
As far as .125 preload that is a figure based upon the difference between the 7.375 rod and the stock 7.500 rod.
I think I have it worked out now.