This wraps my thread about timing my '54 235 ...

The engine is running good. I didn't hear any spark knock.

I used a vacuum gauge to set the timing. I checked the BB with a variable timing light. I had to advance the knob to 24-deg to see the BB. I backed off to about 20-deg and tightened the distributor. The BB is at 2-deg after TC. So the 20-deg reading minus 2-deg = actual ignition time 18-deg before TC.
> 20-deg past BB

I compared my results vs the 1954 GM RestoPack:

> Ignition timing at idle in RestoPack = 2-deg after TC
> My actual ignition timing at idle = 18-deg before TC (20-deg beyond GM specs)

> Centrifugul ignition time at 1,500 RPM in RestoPack = 12-deg before TC (+14-deg over timing at idle)
> My actual ignition timing at fast idle (est 1,500 RPM no tach) = 28-deg before TC (only +10-deg over timing at idle, but I'm not sure about the RPM)
I assume that the vac advance was not activated because there was no load.

Jerry - Now I understand what you told me about the vac and centrifugal advance.
> GM '54 Spark Advance - bottom col 1, top col 2

I believe that the engine has the correct 1954 flywheel. Here is a pic of the BB; it looks like a "2" imprinted on the flywheel.
> My flywheel

I'm closing the hood on this one, unless you have some suggestions or ideas.

Thanks for bearing with me while I'm learning.

- Lonnie

- Lonnie
My '54 3104
Photos that I have shared on Stovebolt via PhotoBucket are no longer available. Please contact me if you want a photo from an old post.
lonniecook [at] aol [dot] com. I sold my '54 3104 12/12/2017, but I still visit Stovebolt.

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