Timing question

Cuda416 said

There was a thread yesterday about reading plugs to indicate how to set proper timing, and other things for your particular engine and environment.

This is it I think...

Spark plug reading can be complex and sometimes frustrating task this page will help make it easier and the results rewarding

Click to expand...

That's just Don's perspective. There's two more points points of view in that thread.
Spark plug timing marks
and
Spark plug timing marks

Initial can be ballparked from here
Distributor starting point for a curve

If that says to start with a lot of timing, then you'll need less in the advance.
If you will be using vacuum advance, then use a slower curve. If you use a fast curve part throttle and highway will be pinging.
To get some idea of what works look at a factory curve, and then cut off the bottom.
Like shown here for a desmogged Chrysler 360
360 Tune Up
But you'll need to cut more off (higher initial)

Another technique for adjusting timing on Delco type advances.
MSD-Delco Distributor Weight Modification For Less Advance