340 lifter noise

It would be much better if you just measured the amount of preload to see what you have instead of parts swapping (guessing), but as long as your sure the longer ones won't bottom out the lifter you can try them.

BTW: when a block is decked it brings the heads closer to the cam so shorter pushrods or thicker head gaskets would be needed. That's the opposite of your problem.
Agreed! Thinner gaskets or a decked block will give you more preload not less.