octane selector ... help please

[fj hunter]

my 69 has the original points and octane selector distrubitor. what are the basics of this?

is it or is it not an adjustment to the timing?

I am getting out the timing gun to set things up tomorrow, and was just wondering.

 

[HKforte]

I believe the octane selector allows you to advance the timing a couple degrees to accommodate for high octane fuel. The higher the octane, the more resistant the fuel is to detonation.

I would fill the car with the fuel you normally pump, and then proceed to adjust timing and mixture while paying attention to the vacuum your vehicle is pulling.

I think the octane selector would come in handy when there is a significant change in elevation. I'm not completely certain. Someone correct me if I'm wrong.

 

[fj hunter]

i see a few ...

more than a couple of degree's of adjustment. i'd say like +- 5 degrees. total of maybe 10.

but i have not measured it either, just a cursury look and feel.

well, i suppose that i do understand the octane issue, and also the altitude as well.

thanks.