so just to bring this back to life.
i switched out to the stock #4 head, which took me to around 150 psi. so i ordered some additional head gaskets, popped the high comp head back on and we're now somewhere between 180-190.
replaced the outer clutch cable.
checked the rings, wear, etc. re-lubed. re-tourqed.
new intake came, ordered a new 16.16 SHA too just for the hell of it.
replaced spark plug wire, confirmed super giant blue spark.
tonight i'll attach the intake and carb, and i guess we'll see what happenes