What do you use to read your timing, since the timing mark on the harmonic balancer advances well past the factory timing gauge mounted on the motor (0-12 degrees).

 

What distributor are you using?
If you are talking about checking total advance, then you either need a timing tape or a dial back timing light.

 

Okay thanks. Timing tape is what I need. My advance can is currently hooked up to ported vacuum on the carb. I'm changing that to direct manifold vac. And I need to see where my total advance is ending up at higher rpms.

 

I prefer to use a dial back timing light. Then no tape required.

 

Don't even know what a back timing light is. How expensive are they? Any brand better than another? Thanks

 

I bought the summit brand dial back timing light around Christmas 2015, I don't remember it being that expensive. I'm thinking $60.00..... but I can't be sure, my wife pays the bills and I'm only allowed to spend $60.00 at a time haha.
It is chrome and looks to be a decent product, I haven't put it to use yet so I can't help you on how to work it.
But ahhh, Oldcutlass will likely hook us up on how the thing works.
It did come with instructions so it should be self explanatory and work well.
I hope this helps
Eric

SUM-G1059 $65.97

 

Check these out...

https://www.summitracing.com/parts/s...FcQjgQodCfELCw

http://www.google.com/shopping/produ...FVglgQodIZwA1Q

https://www.amazon.com/Ferret-Instru...k+timing+light

 

Or you can look for a used one at yard sales, pawn shops, craigslist, ebay, etc...