Looks like this engine will be down a while. The HEI rebuild didn't help. When I was getting ready to try again I noticed oil on the manifold near the dipstick. The dipstick was out about 2 inches and oil was running down the outside. Started to run a compression test and spark plug hole 4 had oil running out. Ran the test and all 8 had right at 60 psi. I'm going to run a leak-down test today (I hope). Also helping my son swap 3.9 l engines in his 97 Dodge van this week end.....
Not looking forward to either project. Will keep you posted. Thanks for all your help and encouragement.
Bob.