The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop 22-deg spark advance??

> Do I have a problem ...?
Today I hooked up my sparkling new HF timing light with the advance dial on the back. I had to advance the dial 22-deg to see the BB. (actually 24-deg) I had not moved the distributor.

I stopped when I saw the amount of spark advance and came in to ask the experts. I haven't installed new points or condenser yet.

+ I've never heard it spark-knock / ping
+ Engine was cold and at idle when I checked timing
+ Choke was open
+ Octain selector on zero
+ Easy to start -- doesn't push back like the timing is advanced too far
+ 90 octain non-ethanol gas
+ Runs cool with a 160deg thermo

I haven't hooked it to a vac gauge yet, or done a compression test. Haven't measured gap on points.

My plan was to set the timing to the BB and use the octain selector to fine tune the timing. The octain selector goes +/- 10deg.

What's my next step?

Some background ...
OK, I admit: I'm an idiot.

I've owned my '54 3104 with '54 235 + 1959 848 heads for fifteen years. Not many miles in the first ten years. About 1,000mi/year in the past four of five.

Except for rebuilding the carb, adjusting the valves, new plugs, and changing the oil - I haven't touched the engine or ignition since I bought the truck. Runs strong.

I figured that I'm probably pushing my luck, so I'm installing new points, condenser, rotor, and setting the timing before I drive to the Daytona Turkey Run.

Thanks for your help,

- Lonnie