3rd Times a Charm, Low comp 440

yeah, with a composition style .038"compressed Head gasket, it probably IS down in the High 7's to 1 range for compression ?

No matter,
try a good 'Ol CompCams 268H cam ?
Seen a few low-pop 440's actually do OK with it.
Advanced 2 * is best.
Steel Shim head gaskets if ya can get them ?

BTW, NICE CORE !