Timing tech.

I have a 1971 LA 318 in my dart with unknown miles (250,000 + - 150,000) All orignal internals..

My idle (initial) with Vacuum advance pluged is 32 BTDC at 1250 RPM and 42 BTDC @2,500 RPM.

Dwell 180deg. (Should I close the point gap??)
This sounds way wrong to me. Shouldn't I be looking at 16-32?
The (above) numbers ain't soundin right. I would gap the points a .017" (or a matchbook) then unplug/cap the vac adv & set the initial at 15 at ~600 RPM in gear/ebrake on which will be what you will see stoplight to stoplight. Stock OE lo po cam correct?). That'd be a start & find out what is going on with your numbers. My first step would be a good timing chain set. EDIT I'm assuming the can is on ported?