Where should I be with my timing??

I apologize for the slight thread-jack, but at least I'll still be in the topic of knock sensors.
@67Dart273 , @brian6pac , I've spent months scouring the internet for information regarding installing a knock sensor in an older SBM, and I'm pretty sure I've clicked every link there is to click, read every thread there is to read... 10 times over. So trust me, I've done my research. But now I come to you two because you're the two that have come the closest to answering my question and I often see your names in knock-sensor-related threads. The question is, WHERE do I install the sensor? Ideally that would be in the block, close to the head. But my '77 360 doesn't give me that option unless I drill into the block, which I'm not gonna do. So the block drains on the side seem like the 2nd best option... except they're pipe threads! So it's not like I can buy a longer bolt to account for the sensor. That tapered short stubby bolt is all I get, and it doesn't leave enough room to secure a sensor AND seal the drain.
Again, sorry for posting here, I'm just a little desperate. Thank you!