160-degree thermostat too cold?

To the OP,

What is your current timing curve?

Are you using vaccum advance?

What is your base and total timing?

Is 91 premium by you?

^This.

If you're getting pinging at part throttle under a heavy load, you'll probably be able to tune it out.

We're going to need more information. When does it ping? Is it at WOT? Part throttle? Be as specific as you can.