Pretty basic question I guess, I'm trying to set my timing after having the distributer out. I know that my total timing should be 35 deg., or I assume, as that was what my engine builder had it at when he dynoed it according to my dyno sheet. So i've got my advance light, I set it to 35, bring the motor up to around 3k or so and check?? This is what I tried but the car runs poorly, almost like it has an ignition miss. Using the same method I brought the timing down to 25 and the car ran great, no missing or anything. So the quesion? what did I do wrong? I need someone to explain to me the proper way to set my timing is all. Thanks a bunch, Jeff

I'm sure you've checked when the 0* mark on the timing tab is aligned with the harmonic balancer mark, the cylinder is at TDC, right?

I use a long screwdriver, and with the spark plugs out, I turn the engine over by hand and feel through the screwdriver piston coming up to and past TDC, center the piston on TDC, then check the alignment. It will either be off 10* or at zero, depending upon the harmonic balancer mark, i.e., year of balancer. Sixty-nine and newer are 10* off from 68 and older.

Once you find the correct TDC, remark the balancer to match the timing tab.

No the total timming is when the engine is at high speed not 35*@ idle. It ran better because you are closer to what it should be around 10 or so like previous post said. Total timming is also without vacume advance hooked up.
If its a modified motor the original settings may not work well. Is it stock?

Good writeup in CHP

http://www.chevyhiperformance.com/howto/97438/index.html

no i didn't set it to 35 at idle, i set it to 35 at around 3000rpm. and no the engine isn't anywhere near stock, it's a 530hp BBC. The total timing of 35Deg is not the stock setting, it's what the timing was at when the engine was dynoed, as I stated above. Also this engine has no vacuum advance, mechanical advance only. HEI if that makes any diff.
everett, i'll double check that and make sure the balancer is marked correct, thanks for the advice.
dragon, i'm just about to read the article, thanks a bunch

Jeff

How much advance are you showing at idle ?