Timing on a '74 ford cologne 2.8 v-6

[limey222]

I've noticed when adjusting timing with a strobe gun (distributor vacuum line plugged) that my engine seems to run smoother, although idle speeds up, as I approach 14 degrees.
I'm running Pertronix ignition, a Offenhauser manifold, Holley 8007 4-barrel, custom headers and twin flow masters . I use Chevron Supreme gas.
I currently have the timing set at 10 degrees which I believe is the factory recommendation for this engine if totally stock.
Will it hurt to run at 14 degrees.
Idle is a little "lumpy" at 10 degrees.
I have no his to go on the motor so I don't know if the cam is standard.

 

[Lariat]

Your carburetor could be a little over kill for that motor. What's the CFM

 

[Jim Oaks]

I have to ask, what are you driving with a '74 2.8L?

 

[limey222]

390 and its a very common mod for this engine in vintage MGB's and Sunbeam Alpines.

Your carburetor could be a little over kill for that motor. What's the CFM

 

[limey222]

A 1969 MGB

Remember this engine was also used in the German Ford Capri in the 70's over here and it was continue to be used in the European Capri until 1984.
It as an option on the Mustang II, the Ford Aerostar van and the Mercury Bobcat among others. In the UK it was used in the TVR sports car as well.

I have to ask, what are you driving with a '74 2.8L?

 

[martin]

The static timing is calculated by adding the vacuum advance and mechanical advance, and the number of degrees needed to bring the total up to 38 should be the static number. That being said, due to age of components a couple of degrees one way or another is not likely to make much difference. The most important thing is that you do not get pinging. The closer to ping you can get without ping is where you will get the best performance. I used to set my 2,8 at 12.

 

[kimcrwbr1]

Are you running the vacuum advane on ported off the carb or from manifold vacuum. If you running ported on the carb try timing it at 10 degrees and then hook the advance on manifold vacuum and then dial in the carb idle air jets for the highest possible vacuum pressure or engine rpms then set the idle speed around 700 rpms? See if that helps on the rough idle.

 

[tmcalavy]

And if you can find one, a vac gauge is aces for lots of stuff...including playing around with your carbed mill.