Timing question

stock timing can run low octane gas and be safe. with more timing, you get closer to detonation (pinging), run a little hotter, and i think emissions increase with more timing.
 
FrdMustangCpe said:
so since i run 87 or 93 octane all the time, i should increase my timing right? also, what kinda performance should i gain? would it be really noticeable?
nope. if you run 93, you can advance it, most likely. if you run 87, you probably wont be able to bump it up much. you have to kinda go with the lowest common denominator - if you ever run 87, tune for 87 and run it all the time. if you tune for 93 and run 87 later, you will probably ping.

good luck.
 
Try setting the initial timing (with a light) with the spout out at 14-16 degrees btdc. Put 93 octane in it. Listen for ping. If you're not getting any, then cut back to 89 octane. If still no ping, cut back to 87. Alternatively, if you're getting ping and don't want to or can't afford 93 octane, ease the timing back in 2 degree increments until the ping goes away. Most folks feel better throttle response and part throttle performance, and slightly better fuel mileage with this change alone. The downside is a warmer running engine (not an issue if your cooling system is up to par) and worse emissions.