Why so much inital timing???

Just did a dry compression test with the engine warm. All cylinders were within 5psi with an average of 165. I'll take it.

I would too. All the cylinders very close is good. High PSI for your compression, means good ring seal to me. Good cranking PSI for a street motor. And no need to worry about gas or tune all the time. Sounds like a fun street motor.