I went out and bought a timing light and at 1100 rpm the line is about an inch forward of the btdc .........it calls for 10 deg before top dead center @ 1100 rpm

Can my timing be this much off????
When at top dead center on # 1 the mark is at 0 deg

 

Where is the line in relation to your timing pointer?

- Eric

 

did you disconnect your vaccum advance?

 

Update.....yesterday we did not have a timing light....my mechanic friend just did it by ear..and I could still hear some light pinging upon hard excelleration!!!
Today I purchased a timing light!!

I did plug the vacuume line and now have the timing is bang on at 10 deg btdc at 1100 rpm and it now runs great...reached 110 mph real quick..starts great.......all is good and no engine ping!!!!!

Thanks guys!!

 

Just curious guys, what engine are you setting at 10 degrees advance? My 425 says 5 degrees. Maybe the compression limits it. I used to set them back in the day by powerbraking, turn until it pings, then turning back till it stops.

 

455...71 delta 88