Timing = heating?

[scooder]

The initial timing isn't as critical as timing above idle. The important numbers is through the rev range at driving speeds and total.
Sure a real stout cam will want more initial, but for 3/4 ish cams 6-8 should be plenty, if it idles good and the right springs are in there allowing advance to work right off idle and it don't bog, your fine. We don't drive these at idle, and to much initial timing can kick back on the starter, with original starter your gonna be braking the starter spring.
Martin.
These flatheads Will run "ok" with timing a fair way out, but they run great with it set right.

[Ronnieroadster]

Originally Posted by scooder

The initial timing isn't as critical as timing above idle. The important numbers is through the rev range at driving speeds and total.
Sure a real stout cam will want more initial, but for 3/4 ish cams 6-8 should be plenty, if it idles good and the right springs are in there allowing advance to work right off idle and it don't bog, your fine. We don't drive these at idle, and to much initial timing can kick back on the starter, with original starter your gonna be braking the starter spring.
Martin.
These flatheads Will run "ok" with timing a fair way out, but they run great with it set right.

The inital timing isnt critical ? Wow I learn something new every day!

[BUBBAS IGNITION]

Originally Posted by Ronnieroadster

The inital timing isnt critical ? Wow I learn something new every day!

I caught that statement as well, but i think what he meant was that the total static timing is the most important number.
The chevy guys running sprinters etc dont ever have a clue where the intial spark timing is but they do know where the maximum advance is for sure. Many just run fixed advance and set the timing with a light at 3000 and above rpm.......never bothering to look at intial.

The mechanical advance curve patches all the other issues in your program that are screwed up..........ie......air fuel ratios, power valves, accel pumps , carb cfms and so on....