OK, I finally tried timing my engine with a Vacuum Gage and I hooked up the gage to the Trans Vacuum Port on the intake. My question is, I cant get any more timing than 17". The Distributor simply doesnt turn anymore than that. I want to try to get around 19'. Am I doing something wrong? What can I do to get more timing?
I know George likes to time his motors that way, but I think it is a bad idea. The initial timing that will give maximum vacuum on a gauge, may in fact be too much timing when you add in the mechanical advance. You could overadvance the motor that way. The right way to time the motor is to get a timing light, mark your balancer, and see how much mechanical advance is in the distributor. Then you'll know how much initial advance you can run for whatever total advance you plan to run. The amount of vacuum you'll have depends on what cam you have, as well as the condition of the motor, and your advance. If you want more vacuum you can run your vacuum advance on manifold vacuum. That will give you extra advance at idle, and it will go away when you nail it. Read my post in the FAQ Forum "How to Power Time Your Buick V8" http://www.v8buick.com/showthread.php?t=63475
