Initial timing

TXBarracuda said
I grew up on old Chevy's. Distributor only went in 2 ways. You were either right or wrong, no "close, but you suck".

Timing by ear is probably the absolute worse way to get it done. I'll end up getting a vacuum gauge and going that route. Next up is converting to hei. It's been a couple of decades since I've gapped points, and I'm not big on playing that monthly game.

I was going to rebuild this distributor with a petronix kit, but, it's about due for a complete overhaul anyway. Going to pick up a new distributor, then rebuild this one as a spare.

From my understanding, the timing marks are useless anymore due to how advanced it needs to go. Is this only true if I stay points, or is it the same with hei as well?

I respectfully disagree. I have timed engines by ear for years and double checked by light. All in all, I'd say it's a crap shoot as to which one is better. I say that, as long as you do it a certain way and not just shootin from the hip. If we were all outside standing next to one, I'd show you what I was talkin about. It's not difficult at all. It just takes a little practice. You'd be danged surprised how good you can do without a light.