Ingnition Timing QUESTION! HELP! PLEASE!

Hello, thanks for opening this up. I need to know how to properly and accurately time my 360 engine. I bought a timing tape from Summit and no instructions. If anyone knows a good book or manual to read PLEASE let me know. I am trying to get the most horsepower out of my small block. I am looking through all my dads ligature and manuals and am finding nothing. Please help. KGStarbck@aol.com is my E-mail. Or PM me, thanks. Keith-

 

If you have a timing light with dial to set advance you don't need the tape. Set timing advance on light to engine builders recommendation. Connect red to power source and black to an engine ground. Put pickup wire on number one cylinder and fire up motor. Point light at harmonic balancer and it will flash with firing of number one cylinder. Rotate distributor clockwise or counter clockwise until TDC mark on balancer is in alignment with timing pointer. Rev motor past 2500 to see if you pick up any advance past there. Distributor will advance timing at or around 2400.

Make sure wires are clear of fan.

Kevin

 

This engine was rebuilt years ago, 20 or so. The engine builder is out of the question. According to Mopar, (484/484 lift purple shaft cam) the advanced timing should be set at 35 degrees. And an Edelbrock technician told me the initial timing should be set somewhere between 14 and 16. What's initial timing? I have 4 different timing lights and one of them has a dial the goes from 0 to 60. Also, I have quick advanced springs and electronic ignition of course. This is a drag race only truck, no mechanical fan to worry about. Your thoughts are appreciated. Thanks, Keith-