Ok the better pump is coming. The fuel filter that was installed is just a small metal can. Are you saying to crank the initial timing up even beyond 12 degress ? There is no vacuum advance. I do have the timing curve set to come in at 600 and full at 4000 . I asked the engine guy why he wanted it set that way and he said for smooth acceleration. Should I speed up the curve with lighter springs ? Besides listening, How do I know how far I can go with timing without damage to the engine. At 12 initial we have no pinging or detonation. Comp ratio is 9.5-1 I will settle for less ooomph to insure longevity. All the boat people I'm asking are saying 34 to 38 degrees... Something is holding this engine back.
A stock 5.7 mercruiser engine will run out to 4600-4800 I could have put a rebuilt crate 350 in it and had almost the same performance.