Is the cam timing the problem, or something else?

The way the engine is running reminds me of the way my first small block Ford ran after the timing chain skipped. That was 42 years ago, so it took me a while to recall that incident and what the cause and result was. I was barely 16, had little to no tools and had never done a timing chain before. I learned pretty quickly that it was important. Since that time I have done dozens of timing chain replacements and cam swaps, but have never used a degree wheel and never had a problem, until now.
I am a firm believer in fixing things properly and have every intention of opening the engine up to correct the problem.
Unfortunately, I have learned this morning that my stepfather has been hospitalized and is not expected to have much longer.
I am very appreciative of the responses from all of you and I will keep you updated when I get the chance to get it opened up and running right.
Until then I have to be supportive of my mother and stepfather for whatever time he has left.
Thank you all.
Randy