318 #302 head timing question

It's a matter of stopping the weights sooner. Some take the plate out and weld it, then open it with a file using a template that some websites have available.

This should be done with some good springs to help tune. I'm using the lighter stock spring and another super light spring, so the full advance comes in on my engine at around 2600 and stays at 34°, where I have the distributor body set.

The advantage of trimming total advance on the curve by welding and trimming the plate inside the distributor is mostly for guys running it on the track, that want full advance really quickly on super light weight return springs. You can gain some there, as well as with a better electronic ignition module than the stock replacement ones, or even the Mopar Performance orange and chrome boxes. It also helps to phase the distributor cap, if you're looking for more, after recurving the distributor advance with springs and stopping the weight.

I found that just using the factory light spring that is installed, with another lighter spring on the other weight and no weight stop adjustment works good for my street engine. I can't remember what my initial/ vacuum is set at. I'd have to check, but I set total timing with tape, like you have, at 34°. I got that by dialing it back from 36°, because I was hearing starter kickback. It's happy there.