Setting Timing on a 302

Here is everthing you need (and then some).


1969
"F" code

Engine size 302 cid
Data plate code F
Horsepower 210 @ 4400 rpm
Torque 295 @ 2400 rpm
Firing order 1-5-4-2-6-3-7-8
Bore & Stroke 4.00" x 3.00"
Compression Ratio 9.5:1
Combustion chamber 56.7-59.7 cc
Rocker arm Ratio 1.60:1
Intake valve size 1.773" - 1.783"
Exhaust valve size 1.442" - 1.457"
Idle rpm 650 (Manual Trans.)
550 (Auto Trans.)
Fast Idle rpm 1400 (Manual Trans.)
1600 (Auto Trans.)
Idle manifold vacuum 16 in/hg
Compression pressure Lowest reading must be
75% of highest reading
Initial ignition timing 6
Point gap .017"-.021"
dwell @ idle rpm 24-29 for manual trans.
26-31 for auto trans.
Number of venturis Two
Fuel Pump static pressure 4.5-6.5 psi
Spark plug type and gap BF-42@ .032" - .036"
Oil pressure 35-55 psi
Oil pan Capacity 5 Quarts

start at 10' btdc

10 degrees BTDC is a good starting point, but depending on the grade of fuel you run, it may like more or less timing. You want to advance it as far as possible (BTDC) till it starts to ping. Then back it down a couple degrees ( toward ATDC) Generally,the higher octane fuel you use, the more you can advance it and the more power it'll make. But some engines have compression ratios so low that using higher octane fuel is pointless, no matter how far advanced you set the timing at.