Thanks Don.
Your description was very good. I now understand the mechanics of the worn cam and how it can result in higher compression.
I also appreciate your description of testing for low compression and isolating the leak area. But with this old engine I'm perfectly happy to chug along with 125-130 readings. If any dip below 100 I'll do something.

For those high compression cylinders where the cam is presumably worn, is there any way to adjust the lifters so that they lift sooner (close later) and still get fully closed on combustion?
Larry