Well, if it didn't have locators and the install height was measured with them, then your valve spring pressures were then too low by a factor of .060".
And yes, if there were no locators, then the spring was not constrained and was probably out of control.
It would probably be worthwhile to dyno it again.
Russ,
The only time I've heard a noisy Morel was when they were faulty. It happens, like every other manufacturer, but it doesn't happen often. The main proponent of noise is the cam lobe to me, and on a street engine I'll keep the hydraulic intensity at 55° and above to make for a quiet camshaft and valvetrain system. In the past several years I've made all kinds of discoveries related to different hydraulic roller setups and I've found that most guys run cam lobes that are way too aggressive, combined with heavier valvetrain than what they should have. Comp Xtreme Energy and XFI lobes are the ones that most guys go to and they are noisy as anything. I've had great results from Thumpr lobes, QXX, HUC, and HLO lobes.
We are used to seeing guys with SBC's and SBF's rev to the moon with hydraulic rollers because they have itty bitty valves and smaller lifters, but it takes some effort to get some engines (Clevelands, FE's, etc.) to rpm with large valves, link bar lifters, etc. There used to be a 6000-6200 rpm ceiling with a Ford FE that everyone had trouble getting past. Going to the right cam lobe and some lighter rocker arms and other components made it do-able.
Check this out:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C_JY47anClATo my knowledge, that is the first and only 7500 rpm hydraulic roller FE in existence. If I would have had more camshaft, it would have went higher. 542 hp @ 7000, 539 @ 7300, and pulled to 7500 cleanly.
If I were to get away from Morels, I don't know who I'd use. I don't like Comp lifters as they require a heavier oil and have a reputation for not pumping up. Lunati and Howards lifters are made by Morel. Cranes are too heavy and frankly too expensive. I can buy a short travel Morel lifter at retail price and still have $100-150 left over for the price of a Crane...LOL