'78 2F Timing Question

[cvan1971man]

Ok, so what is the ideal 2F timing process.

We have an electronic ignition in the distributor. I know that the timing is off.

Do i need to do anything with the vacuum advance?
Do I need to set at idle as well as at a specific RPM?
Is it still best to set at 7 degrees?

What else am I missing

 

[brian]

do some searching and reading here. as well as proving more details on what parts you actually have in play

 

[Pighead]

Ok, so what is the ideal 2F timing process.

I like to time mine by manifold vacuum. I don't worry about the vacuum advance at idle. I set my idle speed where the engine sounds most comfortable. I stopped using 7* a long time ago, some people like 7*. Find out what your engine likes

 

[cvan1971man]

I like to time mine by manifold vacuum. I don't worry about the vacuum advance at idle. I set my idle speed where the engine sounds most comfortable. I stopped using 7* a long time ago, some people like 7*. Find out what your engine likes

Pighead, where are you attaching to test the manifold vacuum?

Are there specific steps i.e. testing at a specific RPM or ?

Steps that you take to set it would be absolutely appreciated!

 

[Skreddy]

Ideally, engine should be fully warmed up but can do this, then adjust again once warm.

Disconnect and plug the vacuum advance.
Set the idle rpm to where you want it.
Set timing advance to where you want it. This will depend on if you are smogged/desmogged, engine condition, stock head, etc. I start with the BB at the lower edge of the window, then remove timing as needed if it is hard starting or pings under load.

 

[Pighead]

Pighead, where are you attaching to test the manifold vacuum?

Are there specific steps i.e. testing at a specific RPM or ?

Steps that you take to set it would be absolutely appreciated!

I use one of the already threaded holes in my intake manifold to the dash-mounted vacuum gauge.
If I advance the timing the idle speed increases so I turn out the idle speed screw, opposite if I retard timing. I like my idle speed 600 or so.
I advance the timing to get my best vacuum reading at idle, then do a bit of the lean idle drop with the idle air screw. I go back and forth between the dizzy and the carb to get it where I like it. Then drive it and see if I can induce pinging, if so I retard timing just a hair.

 

[Skreddy]

I would piggyback off what @Pighead is saying; usually when I’m setting the timing, I am also doing the lean drop. I feel like the timing and carb tuning are a package. Best vacuum at desired idle and as much timing as it’ll take with no pinging or hard starting is where I run mine.