runs like a vac leak

Highflyer
Before you tear into it and start shimming the shafts, there is an easier way. A cylinder leakdown test will tell you all you need to know, in that direction.
And Im coming 62 in June, and as healthy as ever. When someone refers to me as a cat(not so much anymore), I consider it a term of endearment, and it carries a connotation of brotherhood. jus saying.
Im here to help as well. Im pretty much done projects. Im hoping to share my 45 years of knowledge with whom ever can use it.

He did say in the OP, that he did a leak down test of sorts. No air from tailpipe, but could hear air escaping into the block.