Timing question...
 

I just set the idle to factory specs and advanced timing to about 10 degrees BTDC, factory specs calls for 8 degrees, will I be okay at 10? It seems to run smooth and peppy (for a 305 anyway). I have read that a little advanced is good regarding power and fuel economy. But, as long as there is no pinging or knocking. Thanks...

Re: Timing question...
 

Assuming you set it properly then 10 is fine.

Re: Timing question...
 

I dunno, but when we moved from Colorado to Montana (big drop in altitude) in 1997, I set the 350 in my 1976 to factory specs for 3500' with a timing light, and it ran like crap :(

So I set it by ear and it has been purring ever since and no pinging :)

Re: Timing question...
 

Yup, thats the way to do it sometimes! Amen.
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Re: Timing question...
 

If it feels and runs like it did the day at the dealership back in 1976, 1977 or whenever, then its perfect and proper. You just have to put yourself back in time a little and think how it ran then. Most of us on this forum should have a good idea of that.
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Re: Timing question...
 

I retard the timing until it's chugging, then slowly advance until I get to the point where it seems to be running best.

There's usually a point beyond which it doesn't pick up rpm steadily. I find that point and then maybe back it up (retard) just a little bit. Honestly, it's more about where it just feels and sounds right.

That's what I like about these old engines: you really become a part of the process rather than just swapping some electronic parts and hoping it works.

Re: Timing question...
 

You are correct, there is a lot of truth to that! If it sounds good and feels smooth, something has to be correct in there. Can't do that with a 2015 Lexus!!

Re: Timing question...
 

In my experience, as long as you run better than 87 octane fuel, most engines are happier at 10-12 degrees BTDC.

Re: Timing question...
 

It depends on the elevation. I think I used to set mine at -14 in the high mountains of Colorado. (when I bothered with a timing light)

But now I don't remember ever setting back my 73 during the couple years that I was in Alaska, nor did I muck with the 71 during a trip to the TX coast (but I did have to change the points and dist cap because of the salt air on the beach).

The 76 started pinging after we moved CO to MT, but it is a manual. Could be the slush-oh-matticks took care of that. Those TH350s never had any power anyway :(

Re: Timing question...
 

i run mine at 10 or as close to it as possible, remember those specs were for engines of 40 years ago they have worn majorly since

Re: Timing question...
 

My 1976 only has 90-something thousand, compared to over 200K for the 1991 and 1989.

So forty years don't necessarily mean anything - for the pickup, anyway. For me those 40 years have been pretty hard ;)

My timing is pretty slow anymore :(