Setting the timing on a 69 318

Well, quickly i would say zero isn't too much timing. Perhaps your vacuum advance is pulling way too much timing?
Many factors, but i would disconnect the vacuum advance and see if it pings...
Or maybe you don't have enough timing....

Like i said, could be other contributors, but i'd start with this
I also noticed that according to the stock temp gauge showing rung warm I’m using a 190 stat which is what the service manual recommends. Don’t have a temp gauge but just know it shows temp running high if that helps with information
Pat