borneagain 77

Can anyone explain why I need 35 + degrees initial timing to run. I checked timing mark to tdc,and cam timing marks.New MSD ready to run dist. checked with advance type light.I cant seem to find "sweet spot" Any help and or advice would be greatly appreciated

TripDeuces

Explain how you know you have 35* initial.

455man

Is that without the vacuum advance connected?

borneagain 77

Ichecked@ idle no vac. advance o* on pointer dial set @ 35*

oldcutlass

It could possibly be that your harmonic balancer has slipped, You may need to verify where TDC is vs timing mark. We have had many inquiries lately because of this.

waterzap

I second that. If the timing is off, get a new balancer. It will keep on slipping, and you will NEVER be able to set the timing correctly

borneagain 77

tdc on #1 lines up with 0 on pointer

oldcutlass

Does your timing advance with rpm? What does it read @ 3500 rpm?

borneagain 77

I'm picking up 16* mechanical advance

rjohnson442

Are you running a MSD ignition box also? They can/will give false readings on dial back lights. I'd check for vac. leaks first.

jpc647

Did you check this with feel or a small screwdriver or with one of the whistle's that screw into the spark plug hole? I have a similar problem on a 350, but my pointer does not line up to 0 at TDC.