1arunem

1965 442 factory 400ci..

Car has a 'small' distributor, external coil, but looks to have an aftermarket conversion (no points)..

Car runs fine but has always seemed to be a little down on power. Trying to 'fine tune' timing settings.. I am running a 750 Holley dual line if that is of interest.

I have read 7.5* initial (line off) with points style distributor, 16.5* or so with HEI..

What would be a good start (initial timing) with my setup.. I believe it is a Pertronix style conversion..?

Thanks!

oldcutlass

If you are running a points replacement, its just that. You need to be running the points settings as your timing curve is the same. All you've done is changed the type of trigger from mechanical to electronic. The recommended initial is a starting point to be fine tuned from there.

I know this directed towards Corvettes, but the procedure is basically the same for all v8's. Its a good read.
http://www.corvette-restoration.com/.../Timing101.pdf

BangScreech4-4-2

Good article. Thanks for the post!

Sugar Bear

How much slack is in the timing chain? Confirm that the harmonic balancer did not slip, what looks like 7.5 degrees could be off substantially.

Good luck!!!

TripDeuces

Pertronix require 12v while running. Is 12v going to it? That would explain a power drop.

oldcutlass

Actually the 12v requirement depends on which coil he's running.

1arunem

It has an Accel external coil (original style).

The car does not run bad at all, just think it should have more umph..