Quote Originally Posted by map View Post
I've read posts here on how to get this done and just don't get it. I started with timing it at 750rpm at 18deg, took it up to 3500rpm and I have ~40 deg advance in the dist. (does this sound right?). Timed like this there is a significant flat spot on acceleration, until the rpms come up, then it screams. The best it runs is when we set the timing @29! deg. At this setting the flat spot is almost gone but 29 deg can't be right.
Are you checking/setting the timing with the vacuum advance hose dis-connected from the vacuum cannister and plugged off?

Sounds like you still have it connected when you are checking/setting the timing.

Remove the vacuum hose from the vacuum advance cannister and plug it off.

Start the engine and let it get to normal operating temps.

Now you can check/set the timing.

After checking/setting the timing, re-connect the vacuum advance hose. I recommend and use a full manifold source.

Adjust the idle RPM if necessary.