Correct Timing 68 200

[blaze65]

Looking for help with the correct timing setting for a 200. This is a 68 block/75 head setup. Carb is an 1100 with SCV and a LoadO Distributor. Has 3 spd manual. I've seen 12 degrees btc on some sites, 6 in an old Chilton , 5 over factory spec somewhere else.

Issue is been trying to get this resto going and now have a knocking sound in the engine. It is more of a low hammer sound and not a tap but it is hard to say. No exhaust on the engine at present so it's loud and hard to track. Distributor is loose from earlier disassembly so I am hopeful this is detonation knock. Looking to set Distributor correctly to try and eliminate detonation / spark knock.

If it's not that then I think I am in trouble.

Thanks in advance

 

[CobraSix]

If the dizzy is loose, that's likely your problem. I had mine come lose (well, I forgot to tighten the bolt) once after tuning it and within 5 minutes of driving down the road the car was barely running.

For a fairly stock set up (like yours) 6* I believe is the factory set up for a manual transmission. I try to keep my initial advance as low as possible to eek out more mileage. I'm currently running around 8*BTDC, but can't get much lower with my set up and have the car run well in cold weather. However, you should be fine anywhere from 6-12* BTDC. However, verify the timing mark is correct.

 

[blaze65]

Appreciate the help and the info. Unfortunately I think I am looking a an engine tear down. Had a buddy who is a mechanic come over to time it, etc. It starts and runs and we set it at around 8. Problem is there is a hammering sound coming from somewhere in the engine. Does not sound like the valves. Will place a 'Need Engine Need Advice' Post. Thanks again for the help