Charlie...
Just to check, have you set the Prop Static RPM up correctly? i.e. the fine pitch stop.
The book has you set the governor to above 2700 RPM, and then ensure the RPM will not exceed 2700 whilst stationary*. Over a few RV-8 Hartzell/MT Gov combinations, it seems to me any surging is reduced / eliminated by this. Unless performance is absolutely critical, I would suggest setting the static RPM to 2600 or so - this ensures even with a headwind, the RPM stabilises and lets the governor "catch up".
Hope of some use / interest...
Andy (Hill)
RV-8 G-HILZ
* In fact, static running an RV-7/8 frightens me, and I tend to do a short accel run, record "static RPM", and correct it over the 1st few flights.