noisy lifters after looooong lay-off

Just for clarification, this is regarding our '01 X5 4.4i, but this side of the forum has a depth of knowledge beyond reproach...plus my DD is an '01 540i 6 speed

After the timing chain guides disintigrated I received many quotes in the $3500-$5500 range which would essentially be the value of the car itself. I was then given a number of a gentleman who has experience in this type of repair and owns a 5 series with the 4.4i as well. After discussing options, he gave me a $2000 flat fee, but said it would be a side-project and not to expect it for a few months. Well, true to his word, he completed the repair/replacement of guides, timing chain, VCG, VPG and the coolant hoses.
This car has never run better, and if I was deaf, I'd think he had put a brand-new engine in it, but the lifters/rockers are making quite a racket! I've only driven it for 20 miles or so and my Indy mentioned that after an extended lay-off the oil in the lifters follow the rules of gravity and eventually self-drain. He suggested at least a 30-40 mile cruise @ highway speeds to recirculate the entire valvetrain...I just want to be certain I won't be causing any damage cuz it's one helluva racket in there
thanks again for your patience and help throughout the years

I realize this is an X5 question, but I have E39 street-cred help a brotha

Worth a try. Some say this is required to "pump up" the lifters. May want to hold the trans in a lower gear to allow the engine to rev up. If the highway drive doesn't make the noise go away, I'd take it back to the mechanic.

However, having said that, I have three vehicles with hydraulic lifters: the BMW, a Subie Outback, and an RV with the Ford V-10. The last two sometimes set for a month or more w/o any startup noise. The BMW sometimes sets for 5 weeks at a time when I'm away. No noise there, either.

Bmw tis states that to cold start a dry engine start it then immediatley hold to 4k rpm for 30 seconds. The oil pump is driven by the crank so the faster the motor turns the faster theoil makes it to the top.

Drive it everyday and give it a week to settle.

If not, search "M62 Oil Pump bolt O-ring" issues.

superior advice my brethren...will report back in a week with imperical data