Need a little help setting timing

[65 fastback]

I want to get my timing dialed in as well as possible. Where should I set my initial timing and when should my advance start to kick in? Also, how much advance should there be?

I'm hoping for some starting points and any tips.

Below is my engine combo:
- Edelbrock 600 cfm Carb
- Edelbrock Performer RPM intake
- 351 cylinder heads
- Crane Cams 278 H10 (http://www.cranecams.com/?show=brow...-302 C.I.&partNumber=130092&partType=camshaft)
- 2.5" Exhaust
- 5 Speed Manual Trans

Thanks,
Tim

 

[D.Hearne]

Initial should be 10-14 degrees BTDC. Total should be around 36-38 BTDC. You want the total all in as fast as the pinging will allow.

 

[65 fastback]

Initial should be 10-14 degrees BTDC. Total should be around 36-38 BTDC. You want the total all in as fast as the pinging will allow.

D.Hearne, I was hoping you would see this thread. I've only set the initial timing before, I've never messed with the advance. Do you have any pointers for me?

After I set the initial timing, when should the advance start to kick in (at what RPM)? After I get things close, is it basically trial and error, or can I use a tach or vacume gauge to set it? Can I dial it in while in the garage or do I need to test drive it?

Any help is appreciated.

Thanks,
Tim

 

[D.Hearne]

I've never found the need to mess with the advance, other than to make sure it's working. You have two different advance mechanisms with the factory distributor, it's got both mech. advance and vacuum.( if there's a vac. diaphram on it) The vacuum is adjustable with a small allen wrench inserted thru the vacuum nipple. The mech, advance can be changed with different springs. Advance should start as the rpms increase, immediately off idle. Many advise it to be "all-in" at about 3 grand. But I never like I said tweaked them. As long as it runs well and doesn't ping, I'm happy.