I guess that would rule out the filter. If the pressure was too high could it cause the oil to yet behind the bearings? Second thought is it possible to have pressure with low flow?
If oil could get behind the bearings, other than a minute amount of wicking, your bearing bores would be too large or out of shape. Not enough bearing crush. If the bearing are being crushed properly, there is no way the pump could force oil behind the bearings and reduce clearance between the crank.
Regarding the high pressure and low flow, it is possible to happen in certain systems. I am not familiar with small block Mopar oil passages though, and where the gauge port is relative to the pump and oil passages. That is a key thing.
