another timing question

[merlin3]

i purchased a 509 merlin 3 that was running,installed new intake,carb,plug wires,plugs,new HEI distributer,got it to top dead center,lined up the rotor to #1 and 0 timing mark on balancer,it would not run so i pulled distributor and turned it clock wise one tooth and it started right up now at idle the timing is at 18 degrees and if i turn distributer counter clockwise to get it to 8 degrees it will stop running i can't get it to the proper timing spec.the truck runs great,no hesitation,plenty of power and does not overheat.also wile checking the timing when i rev the motor the timing light goes out.thanks for the help.

[geezer#99]

If you're at 18 degrees and want to get to 8 degrees you turn the dizzy clockwise.
Clockwise retards the timing.
Counterclockwise advances it.
Your proper timing spec may indeed be 18 initial. Or more.
If it has no trouble starting when hot at 18 I'd leave it there.
What's the specs on your motor?
Are you plugging the vac advance off while setting the timing?
How much mechanical timing do you have?
How much vac advance timing?
How much overall timing at what rpm?
Are you using a digital or dial back timing light?

[merlin3]

geezer#99 thanks for the help,i am plugging the vac advance i will call the engine builder for the timing spec.