Pieces of steel in cylinder??

FWIW, OP, here is another cam to consider: Crane 693901.
Crane Hydraulic Flat Tappet Camshafts 693901

Moderate ramps, still decent lift. Ought to be usable with 340 type springs, and you might even get away with stockers. Keeps DCR up to at least 7..... which is better than stock, so more torque at the lower RPM's. Mfr lists as 1200-4800 RPM for recommended 8-9.5 SCR (where you are at with this engine).