Continuing ignition timing debate from the 416 thread.

TT5.9mag said

I look at it like this, instead of thinking about how much power was gained by accessing the 1-2-3%, what happens at peak torque on something with a very narrow tuning window (pump gas, boost, cast iron heads for example) and you’re 1-2-3% wrong in the other direction? That goes badly very quick and it pays to get it right.

Click to expand...

That's one of the things that can be trial tested on a more modern desktop dyno simulation. I posted an example using Dynomation 5 and I'm sure the newer versions can do it at least as well. I forget which cam was in the examples but IIRC the window narrows significantly above 2000 or 2500 or so.

One condition unknown in at least that simulation is temperature of the cylinder walls. A 1/4 mile car can run more timing and gain a little. An endurance racer running fully heat soaked needs to run a little less. Anyone asking why is forgetting why the flame is lit off early in first place.

edit: added link