Timing Question

[JamesBaumann]

I am getting my timing set properly on Monday afternoon. I know that base timing is 10* advanced. Now, I haven't told the guy exactly how many degrees advanced I want it. Right now I have essentially a stock n/a 2.3 but I am in the process of doing head work. (Roller Cam, Port & Polish, Milling). Here is my question. Approximately how many degrees advanced should I have it done for optimum performance once I swap in the new head? I was thinking about 12-14*, but I dont know if I should have it less or more once I swap on the high performance head. So I am just trying to think ahead. Any input I'd appreciate.

 

[TurboFlush]

good question. I milled my head also and havnt checked where the timing is yet. I adjusted it by feel and sound.
its actually still just barely tight enough so I can adjust it without a wrench, but it wont move.

But I am curious.

 

[Stinger]

I'd go with 16 or more...basically as much as you can run without detonating.

 

[JamesBaumann]

I know that I am going to add high end power by having my timing advanced, but am I going to lose low end torque?

 

[Stinger]

You're getting confused...that's cam timing you are talking about, not ignition timing.

 

[JamesBaumann]

You're getting confused...that's cam timing you are talking about, not ignition timing.

Ok, clearly I am getting confused, very confused. The tech article on your site is for cam timing then, correct? Ok, so having advanced cam timing gives your more power, what is the point having ignition timing advanced?

 

[JamesBaumann]

I've ran a few searches now and I am really confused about the differences between cam timing and ignition timing. When people talk about having their timing advanced, 10* is base and you guys say you can go all the way up to 18* advanced, are we talking cam timing or ignition timing? Damnit, I really wish this made more sense to me. Somebody want to explain to me the difference between the two?

 

[Stinger]

Ignition timing is what everyone is talking about when they say they advanced their timing. It is "when" the spark plug fires relative to the position of the piston. Advancing the ignition timing will give you more power throughout the rpm range. Ignition timing is advanced or retarded by simply turning the distributor.

Cam timing can only be done with an adjustable cam gear. It basically turns the cam forward or backwards relative to the position of the pistons. This moves the cam events relative to the engine and therefore moves the power band up and down the rpm range (more low end power, more high rpm power, more midrange, etc.).

 

[JamesBaumann]

Thanks for clearing that up. I've got all this figured out now I think.