Well.. I want to say that's good news.. but, not really HUH? At least "we" can explain most of it..

Have you put a torque wrench on the crank and done a torque reading? I am assuming Scott did originally... Your new value should be lower due to wear / break-in... it "may" give an indication of bearing condition..

Again, grasping for straws..

What head gaskets had been in use? Were they Fel-Pro?