1999 vortec 454 in a 1999 k2500 suburban
Unless the valvetrain has been modified, there IS NO ADJUSTMENT for lifter preload.
Mark IV big-blocks had adjustable rockers just like small-blocks. Gen 5, 6, and 7 big-blocks have "net lash" rocker system. They're torqued to spec, and the geometry is worked-out so that it automatically achieves acceptable lifter preload.
I dropped my new lifters in assembly libe for about 8 hours.
You wasted eight hours. "Soaking" lifters does nothing useful.
I just installed them and put in new pushrods. I am now in the process of doing the rocker arms. I turn the engine till one of the lifters is at the highest point and torque the other one down till the pushrods don't spin. But exactly that isn't happening. I can still turn the pushrods even when I used akt of power to torque the rocker arm down.
Torque the rocker bolts to spec using a torque wrench, and walk away. There
is no adjustment on the stock valvetrain system.
It is possible to convert to the adjustable-style valvetrain, the easiest way is via special rocker studs and nuts. I did this on the Vortec heads I ran on my boat for a few seasons.
@Schurkey has a pic floating around where he pumps some oil or ATF in the side by force.
I use ATF since it's thinner at room temp than most engine oil. Pumping them full of oil assures that the lifter can pass oil through to the pushrod seat, and allows me to verify the leakdown rate. HOWEVER, you then need to allow extra time to adjust the rockers, as the oil trapped in the lifter will need to bleed out as the lifter plunger gets preload. Failure to allow the bleed-down can result in the valves being forced open, and if the piston is at TDC, it's possible that the valve could be bent.
In the process of pumping them full of ATF, some will inevitably flow onto the side of the lifter...which is good. Make sure the lifter side has a film of lube when you drop it into the lifter bore.
You must be registered for see images attach
You must be registered for see images attach
Some ATF or engine oil on the roller bearing of a roller-lifter would be useful. Don't install 'em dry.