Bob: I need help! My engine is a '49 block with 3/4 cam by Elgin, 9 to 1 pistons by Ross, three carb manifold, headers, polished ports and combustion chamber, balanced, etc. The engine is installed in a 1940 Series 80 limited sedan. I plan to order a custom distributor from from Performance Distributors. They will tailor the advance curves to any specs I call for. The stock unit I have I know is tired and will be replaced. If I set the timing to stock specs, it is smooth at lower rpm and load and pings like mad under higher load and RPM. If I retard it to get rid of the ping, then it runs very rough at lower rpm.
What would you suggest as:
1. Initial Set point
2. Machanical advance curve
3 Vacuum advance curve
This is not to be a racing engine (can you imagine a black limo at the drags?) But I just wanted to have a good running engine with good power and hopefully some decent mileage. Hope you can help me.
Regards,
Earle