I wrapped up my winter project last weekend (new heads, cam and converter). I fired it up last weekend and broke in the cam. I am in the process of tuning and am working on the timing. Here's what I have and it does not seem right to me, but not sure.

12 degrees initial timing
Total timing all in @ 2000 rpm
28 total degrees of timing
Craftsman advance timing light with vacuum line from distributor disconnected and plugged

My concern is the total timing and all in RPM. Reading through this forum I regularly see information that suggests 32 total timing and all in at about 2500 -3000 rpm. I guess that depends on the curve.

Looking for input as I am by no means an expert.

Here are my specifics

355
Speed pro L2320F pistons
N crank
Melling high volume pump, Milodon 7qt pan and pick up
Mallory Unilite distributor unmodified
Mallory Hyfire Igniton
5 heads with 2.02 intake, ported, HS roller rockers
Edelbrock Performer RPM intake
Holley 670 Street Avenger with 50cc pump
RobbMc fuel pump, set at 6 psi
Erson hydraulic flat tappet 224/220 dur on 110 separation, degreed in.
TH350 with a Coan 2800 converter.
Flowtech ceramic coated headers, 1 7/8 and 3" collectors.

 

Ok I appear to be an idiot. At 2000 rpm the timing stop advancing but had to take it past 2500 to get it move again. It appears to be more like 32 degrees at about 3000. My question now is should there be a flat spot between 2000 and 2300 rpms

 

Check and make sure your advance weights and springs are clean and move freely. Give them a little silicone lube and wipe off the excess so it does not get slung all under the cap.

I would try bumping the timing up 2* so it gets closer to 34.

 

I think what you are describing is the difference between vacuum and mechanical advance.

 

No because with vacuum it would up in the 50's.

Advance it a tiny bit and see if you get any pinging or surging while your driving up a steep hill. Keep going until it does and then back off a bit. Then see where your timing winds up.

 

Also, if you are timing it with the engine still out of the car, I'd change out that milodon pickup. Those things are garbage. Keep an eye on it every oil change. One day you may just find it by your drain plug.