General info until you provide the distributor part number to Mike.

Idle speed
http://chevy.oldcarmanualproject.com/shop/1954truck/54ctsm0652.html

Timing
http://chevy.oldcarmanualproject.com/shop/1954truck/54ctsm0619.html

Dave and Deve - Helpful Info
http://devestechnet.com/Home/StoveboltTiming


The distributor vacuum advance line is connected to a point above your throttle valve on your Carter YF2100S (carb from your other posting).
At idle speed you should have low or no vacuum so removing your vacuum line for timing is not necessary. Not a step in the shop manual anyway.

In case you didn't know - oil pressure and head temperature pre-checks:
If you notice on Deve's website, at the bottom, there is a procedure to check your oil pump.
I used a piece of rod stock and tapered to fit the slot on the pump. See if your oil pressure gauge works.
Your temperature sensor is mechanical. You can very carefully unscrew the holder and gently lift up the gas-filled tube and bulb.
Place in hot water and see if the gauge functions.

"Adding CFM to a truck will only help at engine speeds you don't want to use."
"I found there was nothing to gain beyond 400 CFM."