Not to hack this thread, but I'm going though the same elimination route
for my knock.

Plug wire pulling told me nothing too, checked fuel pump push rod...OK
Absolutely NO type of residue after pulling valve covers and in the drain pan when I last changed the oil three weeks ago.

Oil pressure 80 cold, 35 hot with 10/30 VR1, rods and mains were at both at .0025 when buttoned up last year.

Hydraulic FT purple cam, Hughs roller rockers, six pack, Hooker Super Comps.

I guess I'll put the car up and take a peek at the converter bolts.

Pulled all the plugs and they all look rich (idle) noticed oil pooled near a rear intake bolt (above #6) That plug shows a lot of soot.
Time to pull manifold and use some additional sealing. Be able to look at the lobes too.

I'll chime in if I find anything else.

Good luck Nitrofish, Joe

PS I agree that the marks I see on your cam bearings look like an unorthodox installation.