I didn't ignore the recommendation to check the lifter or the cam. I have already done that. I'm running a solid cam and solid lifters. They look to be in EXCELLENT shape.

When I pulled the pistons and rods I noticed 3 of the 8 were showing signs of wear on the uppers showing a little copper, but they were pretty smooth.

#2 and #3 MAIN bearings were another story. Crank will need to be cut and polished. #2 and #3 were pretty chewed up and scored.....resulted in scored crank journals, too.