Only runs 40 Degrees advanced

Since the thrust is up front, cast would likely no longer drive oil pump nor distributor. Seems the twist in the steel would make the bearings tight, and squeel like a pig. But the key would shear before a twist.

Is the cam cast iron or cast steel?

Metal has memory. If you bend the crankshaft on your push mower when you hit a big rock you can hit the crankshaft with a big hammer back into place.
Why does it have to shear the cam key? The key is tightened to the gear and cam with a bolt.
Only in Deliverance do you have to squeal like a pig.
Not saying the cam is Twisted just saying there is a possibility.