what is base timing? and what rpm

[bjohn07]

i had my buddy at the parts store swap out my dist for a new one. i put my peformance hei ignition module and capacitor in it and put on a msd cap and hei coil. now i just need to know what the base timing is on a sbc350 for when i drop it in. and also what is a good timing set that you guys are running. it is a vacuum advance distributor. i only have exp with locked dist so how should i set the timing on this one. do i set it at idle with the vacuum line connected or disconnected or do i have to set it at a certain rpm range?

 

[bjohn07]

also im gonna put a new cam in so i know i gotta break it in. so how should i set the timing while holding the rpms at 3k. or should i get it close to base for the breakin and set it after i break it in?

 

[bjohn07]

 

[billyjack]

Set it at idle with vacuum line disconnected. Start at 4 degrees BTDC. Leave the dist hold-down bolt snug, but not torqued tight and experiment with advancing it a little at a time. You may be able to go as high as 10-12 degrees depending on the fuel you use and individual engine preferences.

Bill