My big block likes a ton of timing too, and I know of several others that do as well. You cant just say it's too much timing, every engine is different. I have run a total of 48 degrees on a big block with no problem, that's the way it ran the best. I would think the carb is the problem, and I think you'll find the fix with the route you're taking. You need more fuel when you hit it. I think you'll be OK after that. Check the timing again to be sure, but dont worry about it if it runs good. Just watch for signs of detonation.....little silvery specks on the plugs for example. You cant always hear the pinging, so dont just go by that. John