[fordss]

Question is: I was told to set it at 8 degrees, and when l did that, it didn't feel like it had much power so l decided to turn the distributor to the point that the rpm picked up most. And at that point, the timing mark doesn't touch any of the degree's plate. It's like an inch off the plate.... The timing mark is on the distributor side. I drove it for miles like that, would that be harmful on the engine or can l just leave it? Thanks

[RWENUTS]

Did you plug the vacuum line to the distributor when you set the timing?

[fordss]

ya after i set it at 8 i put it back on.. got little better when i gave it full tune up. but i still got the timing mark way off tho

[RWENUTS]

Could be a spun balancer!!
Might need to check it out. Bring #1 to tdc on compression and see if timing mark on balancer is at zero on the tab.

[fordss]

i try that and it right on ...what would happen if left it where it is ? thanks

[cobalt327]

Originally Posted by fordss

Question is: I was told to set it at 8 degrees, and when l did that, it didn't feel like it had much power so l decided to turn the distributor to the point that the rpm picked up most. And at that point, the timing mark doesn't touch any of the degree's plate. It's like an inch off the plate.... The timing mark is on the distributor side. I drove it for miles like that, would that be harmful on the engine or can l just leave it? Thanks

Often adding initial timing helps pick up the off-idle response and will increase the vacuum. Both good things, all else being equal.

BUT!!! If you increase the initial timing, you have to compensate for it by reducing the amount of mechanical timing the distributor gives, at least in most cases. The total timing can be set to be all in at the earliest rpm that the engine will allow w/o detonation. In most performance applications this will be in the area of 3000 rpm. The exact rpm will vary from engine to engine. But remember- no detonation.

Info on setting up a performance timing advance curve is here. The page is on the GM HEI, but the timing advance info is basically universal.

If you are running off the end of the timing marks, you can make a timing tape (or buy one). You can also use a dial back timing light.

To see if the damper is slipping, see the info here.

If there's any question if the timing marks are correct, verify TDC.

[fordss]

i dont push over 2800to 3000 rpm .most time im at 2500rpm wich is like 50 or so no speedo lol . i have headers coming soon http://www.summitracing.com/parts/BIG-11510FLT/ what should it get for hp thanks

[RWENUTS]

You'll need one of these to put those headers in. Likely no clearance around your clutch linkage and maybe motor mount.
You'll gain 10-20 horses maybe. More if you add an HEI, 4 bbl intake and bigger carb.
Sealey Brass Face Dead Blow Hammer 24oz BFH24 [BFH24]

[fordss]

I already got the HEI, and l got a hammer
Do you have any pictures to show me what l gotta do. Or are you saying l got to use a hammer to dent the headers lol, l'm not afraid to do that

[RWENUTS]

You might need to clearance a couple tubes.

[fordss]

Otherwise it wont be too bad?

[RWENUTS]

And you'll need to massage the odd looking washers that hold the head and manifold on. Each one is shaped different. On each stud. They'll need some grinding on one side. Thickness of header flange and intake flange will be different. Might want to unscrew the locating lugs on each end of the head and replace with studs and nuts too!
I bet you thought it was a bolt on!!

[fordss]

ok can do.thanks for all that helped me