Thanks for all the replies!!
I “get” it now. I’ll be needing a timing light and a degree tape.!I’m thinking I might need to change the total advance though as I have read that magnums like ke 33-34 and it’s set up now for 36.
Since its a MP distributor, then yes you can can use the DC/MP guidelines for a magnum as a starting point.
It's about things that change the time for combustion to build pressure.
Two points of caution.
a. There were two versions of the MP distributor with vacuum advances. They have different advance mechanism and therefore different curves.
You can identify which version it is by looking. Photos on the left show the Mallory made version. Digital Mavica image viewer
b. As a previously used distributor there's no guarentee its still the original settings.
Third, 33-34* at ______ rpm is critical to know. Pick an rpm or two and make it your reference point. DC/MP used 2600-2800 rpm on their older guidelines. I usually make a quick check at a higher rpm too.
Same goes if working at idle. Setting initial at 800 rpm is usually not the same as setting timing at 650 rpm. So always note the rpm a timing measurement is made.
