initial timing on 360 at 8000 feet above sea level

[bike5087]

Hello -

I'm wondering how far I should be able to advance the initial timing on a stock 360 for best performance at 8000' and above?

I have it at 12 right now but it runs really good at 14.

I can never get it to ping under load, but I'm wondering what the consequences could be of advancing the timing too much?

Thanks!

[knightfire83]

You can advance the timing as much as you want. When it starts to ping back it off a bit until it doesn't. 12-14* btdc is average for performance out of a FE engine.

Also, the more you advance it, the harder it will start. The starter will be trying to rotate the engine and the combustion of a cylinder BTDC will work against it depending how far the timing is advanced. This problem is worse in hot weather.

When you go crazy and advance the timing to much, you get the ping. This is called detonation, and detonation eats pistons and rings for breakfast. $$$$$

[Dragon]

Timing is no big deal but if you are not jetted for that altitude you are wasting fuel. If you have a Holley you are supposed to reduce 1 jet size for every 2000 feet.