What should base timing be on a SBC?

Depending on your cylinder heads, compression ratio, camshaft, and centrifugal advance curve in the distributor, “normal” base timing for a street high-perf small-block Chevy is somewhere in the 12- to 18-degree before top dead center (BTDC) range, with total timing at full centrifugal advance about 34 to 36 degrees …

What is the base timing on most engines?

Most engines set ignition timing somewhere between zero and 20 degrees before top dead center. This is called base timing. When set, the ignition system and engine are timed so the fuel in a cylinder is at its peak burn just as the piston compresses the fuel vapors into the smallest amount of space.

What RPM should a SBC idle at?

When it starts it will probably be near 700, but as it warms up, it will rise to 1200 or more. Then you pop the throttle and kick kit off fast idle. I think the recommended setting for fast idle is 1200 rpm on a warm engine.

What happens if my timing is too advanced?

Spark plugs need to fire at the right time, which can be achieved by advancing or retarding the timing of the engine. Ignition timing advancing means that the spark plugs are firing earlier in the compression stroke, farther from TDC. The air and fuel mixture in the combustion chamber doesn’t burn right away.

Does advancing timing increase idle?

Our experience shows that connecting the vacuum advance to a manifold vacuum source will add timing at idle and improve idle quality in gear with an automatic transmission.

What is the max rpm on a Chevy 350?

Basic 350s won’t rev beyond 5500 due to induction and exhaust limitations, but they should be reliable to 6000 as long as you don’t run them out of oil.

What is the idle speed on a 350 Chevy engine?

idle speed for chevy 350 [Archive] – Cobra Club Forums. around 7-800, any more and it can run on when you turn off the ignition. around 7-800, any more and it can run on when you turn off the ignition.

What RPM set initial timing?

Lighter springs allow the advance to begin at a lower rpm. Heavier springs delay the onset and slow the rate of advance. A typical mechanical-advance curve might start advancing at 1,500 rpm and achieve full advance by 2,600 rpm.

What does a 383 engine have?

Here’s what my 383 engine has: New GM 4 bolt main, Major internals are all Probe Industries Pistons, Crank and rods.

How much idle timing advance is too much?

Maximum idle vacuum will usually result in too much idle timing advance. 20°-25° (depending on camshaft duration @ .050″) of idle timing is fine. May God’s grace bless you in the Lord Jesus Christ.

What should the idle temperature be at idle?

Now check the idle and adjust it to where you want it then check the idle timing. (vacuum advance still disconnected) Ideal would be about 14 degs showing you have 20 degrees of mechanical in the distributor.

How much compression should I use at idle?

Depends on a bunch of factors such as cylinder heads, compression ratio, camshaft, etc. For a typical performance engine I’d use 20° at idle, 34° total and 40° for cruise. Smooth it out a bit and try it. Adjust as necessary. The bigger the cam the more you’ll need at idle. That’s good advice Andy. May God’s grace bless you in the Lord Jesus Christ.