Ailing engine (Updated after teardown)

https://www.scegaskets.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/ICS-TITAN-INSTALLATION-INSTRUCTIONS.pdf
Integral O-Ringed Copper Head Gaskets

https://www.scegaskets.com/wp-conte...ER-HEAD-GASKETS-INSTALLATION-INSTRUCTIONS.pdf
For the ultimate seal and protection from head lift or aggressive total timing applications, O-Ring the heads and cut Receiver Grooves in the block.

With that said, 31* of Total Timing is a lot for 9PSI of Roots boost.