There is a much better method to set the initial timing than "trial and error", and it doesn't take any special equipment. There is a hole in the bellhousing just above the starter which has a pointer in the middle of it. On the front of the flywheel, there is a circular dot stamped that will be visible as it passes through the bellhousing window. It might be necessary to remove the lower flywheel cover and do a little cleaning or sanding to expose the timing dot, but it's there- - - -be persistent until you find it. Once the timing dot is visible, turn the crankshaft clockwise from the front until the dot is aligned with the pointer. Loosen the clamping screw that holds the vacuum advance to the distributor housing enough that the housing will turn with just a little effort. Remove the distributor cap and watch the points while you turn the housing clockwise from the top until the points are closed. Turn the housing back counterclockwise until the points are barely open. Lock the housing clamp screw down and reinstall the distributor cap. The initial timing is set. If you need to advance the timing a little more for smooth running, loosen the clamp a little and turn CCW for earlier timing. Careful- - - -a very small movement makes a big change in the timing.
Jerry
