Timing question

[RustyPile]

Originally Posted by Kw69

Gents,

Got a typical question. I have a crate drop in 350 GM goodwrench with 195 hp not the 290. So what is the timing on that engine, I have heard from 0 degrees to 10... previous owner told me 0 degrees, but that seems way to low. What’s your thoughts, it is running with AC and 4 barrel Rochester carb. Idle with ac on is set at 750 rpm. Seems to diesel some after shutting it off when set at 2 degrees so I set it now at 8 and have not noticed that. However slow to turn over.... so I’m thinking that I’m getting heat soak on the old starter... if so .. question 2... what can I do about that? Purchase a mini starter? If so what kind? So for all the questions just running into some fun today..lol also to add that it was hard to turn over hot when at 2degrees before top dead center, as well.

Thanks guys as always,
Kris

Is this your engine??
https://www.jegs.com/p/JEGS/JEGS-Sma...gin|0||P_SKU|0

A 195 hp 350 sbc is a very mild engine. Low compression (below 9.0:1) needs low octane fuel and not much initial timing.. Total "all in" timing should be around 30 - 32 degrees.. I'm just taking a shot in the dark here without more specifics, but I'd say 10 degrees initial is a bit much. Probably closer to 6 degrees would work better.. Slow cranking speeds are not always indicative of a heat soaked starter.. Too much initial timing, weak or insufficient battery capacity, bad battery cables/connections, or a worn out starter, among other things will produce the same symptoms..

Before you start slinging parts at it, check and repair as necessary, all the basic items involved in the actual cranking process.

My 10:1, Lunati cammed, header equipped 454 BBC cranks just fine with a 350 cid hi-torque old style GM starter.. Nothing installed to aid heat soak either..