Thread: Timing - too advance? or too retarded?

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Don's advice is spot-on for technique, but if you've got computer controlled timing (ECM/ECU) I would suggest putting a light on it to get the base timing where it's supposed to be. Also, higher octane fuel slows the burn rate to limit ping in high compression engines running more advance - seems to me if you're getting "ping" under acceleration there is no way your timing is retarded (needing more advance), IMO. If it's retarded a few degrees you won't see max power and it may run a bit hotter (especially your exhaust headers) but it'll crank quick and won't ping. Just my thoughts (and been wrong before....)

Thanks for all the advice. I don't have a timing light, but before the manifold was removed, it cranked fine, and there wasn't any ping at all.
I'll make a mark, as you all suggested, with a marker on the manifold, so I'll know
how much I moved the distributor. Thanks again for your imput.
Mike