I'd start by finding out where the cam is timed. Rotate the crank a couple times, by turning it away from the tensioner side, the way the crank spins when running. Turn it to where the lower timing mark lines up with the notch on the lower cover. If the cam is correctly (relatively closely) timed, the cam indicator will be perpendicular to the surface of the head & block. This is with the tension installed.
If the cam is out of time with stock gears, it is at least 10 degrees off. Check this a couple times before yanking the upper gear, please.