timing ?

[roadking]

new crate 350 w/hei. ive advanced my timing from 8*to16*and have not felt any dif. in performance advancing my timing up 2 degree at a time, im looking for the very best all around mpg and performance. can anyone explain in lamons terms why most suggest to advance timing until engine pings then back down 2*, why not set to mfg. recommendation? my motor seems to run fine at factory specs.?

[Virginia72SWB4X4]

Roadking

Static timing, the timing the general said to use is considered a good start and will provide an all around good driver.
The best way to set timing on just about all SBC's unless they are radically modified is to set the dynamic timing (that is timming after all mechanical and vacumm advance timing is in) to 38-40 degrees.
The easiest way to do this is to either use a adjustable timing timing light or even easier, timing tape on the harmonic balancer.
The stock HEI, with normal full intake manifold vacumm connected, should have all advance timing in by about 2500-2700 RPM.
Adjust the full timing to 38-40 degrees when the engine is warm and at about 3000 RPM that should put you right where you need to be.
It's likely you'll be near 10 degrees when at idle. In any case adjust idle speed to where you want it at that point.

Good luck!