Pinging

OK here is what I have. I have now set initial to 12 BTDC. Had to increase idle but that is with the vacuum still disconnected. So I dialed in 12 degrees on the timing light and at idle it set right at TDC. Then I dialed in to 38 degrees. That is around what most of you think is good for total mechanical advance. Brought the engine up to around 4000 and I am at the mark being hit at 10 degrees BTDC. So that is 48 total. I am lucky I did not grenade this motor. So I am guessing the best thing to do is spend some coin and put an adjustable mechanical advance unit in. Unless you guys think 48 degrees is OK. No way will it run at TDC at idle. I tried it and it stumbles and pops. It seems to idle even a bit better with 12 degrees as opposed to 22 degrees which is where it was when I started.

OK suggestions. I can not drive it yet.