Cylinder wall lubrication comes from
oil expelled from the connecting rod side clearances. Engines with excessive rod bearing and side clearance can "throw" too much
oil into the bottom side of the pistons and on the cylinder walls for the
oil rings to control. I think Tom will agree with me, there are just too many variables involved to accurately diagnos exactly what is going on in your friend's engine over the internet. It is most likely a combination of several of the problems that the others have stated. Also, what does your friend consider "good ventilation"?
I have used Total Seal gapless rings many times with excellent results although just like any quality ring-set it is critical that the proper honing techniques be utilized for the type of rings to be used. Follow the ring manufacturer's finish requirements and there should be no problems.
Tom, are you set up to install screw-in freeze plugs in FE blocks? I chipped my tap on the last job I did and might need one done in a hurry.
--Mike