Question on establishing a baseline timing setting

[RagTopMan]

When initially setting timing per the book (4 degrees ATDC, dynamic, at idle), is this set with the retard and advance (I have both) disconnected and plugged? Or is the retard and advance left attached? I don't think the advance does anything at idle so that probably doesn't matter.

I've read that many people have had positve results with advancing the timing beyond "book" value but I want to start with a baseline and go from there. More importantly, I want to be sure about whether the advance and retard lines should be attached or pulled and plugged each time I make any adjustments.

 

[GerryL]

I suggest you set the timing without the engine running as recommended by factory. The link below describes why to time this way and describes the timing procedure.
https://www.macysgarage.com/myweb6/ign-timing.htm

 

[TR3driver]

The 4 ATDC figure is with the retard connected and operating. Advance doesn't really matter, you should get the same reading either way.

It is up to you, personally I think the vacuum retard was a bad idea to begin with so on my Stag I permanently disconnected and plugged the retard, then used the factory "static" timing value (10 BTDC IIRC) as the "base" setting.

If you do retain the vacuum retard, make sure that funky valve connected to the throttle linkage is working properly. If it stays open (or is closed when you adjust the timing), you'll wind up with the timing retarded all the time, which really louses up performance and fuel economy (and can even lead to overheating).

 

[RagTopMan]

Thanks clearing this up for me Randall. Just set the timing to 4 ATDC and the engine runs wonderfully. I'll leave it there for awhile while I get comfortable with the car.

Finally took my maiden voyage yesterday. Been working on it so long, I forgot that it is a car afterall!

My funky little vacuum valve thing works as it should but as soon as I get through emissions tomorrow, it is likely to be bypassed as you have done.