Blew it up... GRRRRR!!!!!

camd64 said
sure there is, thats why they make adjustable length pushrod checkers. all you do is put the checker in, tighten the shaft down, set the length so you have zero lash then remove it. once you have it out measure it and add the amount of preload you want. then all you have to do is order up the length you want.

Exactly, you can even make your own. This is for an adjustable valvetrain but the same can be done for a non-adjustable. I made this on a cheap drill press with a drill press vise, a grade 8 bolt and two nuts.