the shims could do that for sure. take the path of least resistance and start with undoing what you did. if it still runs like crap then i would check the timing or look for bent parts in the pump as could have spun the timing gear as stated above. put you stock springs and shims back in for now and see how it runs.

 

it is making a loud ticking sound too????

 

did you take the home made shims out? could have bent something. or something is in the pump. take a pencil magnet and go fishing in the pump to see if anything is in there. plus you can unscrew the plug on the back of the pump and drain the oil out to get a better look inside!

 

sounds like hell man.... best of luck wished to ya