Cam & Timing Set Questions

Two quick questions.

I know we are all aware of the cam failure issue over the last 20 or 25 years. I personally had a mopar 509 cam go flat 15 years ago and blame myself, it definitely was an oil issue (lack of zinc) on my part. Mine was a hydraulic flat tappet, and it seems that every cam failure I know of was with a hydraulic flat tappet cam.

Question number one - I am thinking of going to a solid lifter (mechanical) cam in my current 440. Has anyone had a solid cam go flat, or have first hand knowledge of one going flat?

Question number two, what is everyones choice of, or suggestions for a good big block timing set?

Thanks all, I am hoping that my 49 will pick up a little bit with a solid cam!