Trying to set timing

[MMiller1050]

I am trying to set timing on a Chevy 350 w/HEI in my 69 truck. I initially set it to 4 degrees BTDC...without the vacuum advance hooked up and a bolt in the line. Then I hooked up the vacuum advance and revved to check it. Well....the timing retarded over in the ATDC (After) territory of the marker. It goes about 10 degrees in that direction as I rev it. It also is running extremely rich and backfires slightly as its revs.....little pops.

I know I am an idiot and don't know what I am doing. But....its not supposed to go in the direction right? Its supposed to advance to about 32 degrees at 3500 rpm. I bought this truck and did not set the timing it has now....so what is wrong.

Thank you for any help.

Michael Miller