I have ask this before but am still not clear on how to deal with the
apparent discrepancy.
The BJ8 distributor I have indicates 18 degrees (distributor degrees) of
mechanical advance. This is stamped inside. This equals 36 crankshaft degrees.
If
I add to this any static advance (10 degrees, per manual) and assume zero
vacuum advance I will be significantly over the 35 degree max. total advance in
the shop manual. I have verified this is actually what is occurring by checking
the max. advance with the vacuum advance disconnected, using a dial back to
zero timing light. (Several of our club member's cars are running 45 to 50+
degrees Max. advance.) I guess my question is: do I ignore the Max. advance or
limit the Max. & accept what ever I get at idle?
A related issue is that when the advance is retarded to 35 degrees Max. it is
difficult to get a smooth running idle.
What are your experiences?
Gary Hodson
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