I'm currently installing an FBO limiter plate into my factory electronic 340 distributor. I pulled it apart pretty easily but noticed that its missing one if the advance springs. Is that normal on some factory setups?
I've never seen that from the factory, but it was a very common mod back in the day.
Is it a free/easy way to get the advance to come in quicker?
Yes, but it's really not a great idea anymore since advance springs are available. Having one spring "gone" means you can have advance all the time, even at idle. It used to be the hot ticket, though.
This distributor was set at 6-8 degrees idle and was at 35 all in. I'm hoping to bring the base timing up to 18 or so and see how it acts. Unfortunately, I didn't pay any attention to WHEN the advance happens.
I just bet it was all in real early.
You need to find your initial timing happy place and then limit the mechanical advance to 34-35° by welding up the slots or using a advance plate. Then you can mess with the advance springs. Like mentioned, taking out the heavy spring and replacing it with a factory light spring or a Mr Gasket spring. Too light of a spring will advance too quick and cause ping.This distributor was set at 6-8 degrees idle and was at 35 all in. I'm hoping to bring the base timing up to 18 or so and see how it acts. Unfortunately, I didn't pay any attention to WHEN the advance happens.