How Much Ignition Timing


I have a 1963 MKX 3.8 with stock high compression head. What is the most ignition timing advance that you are running on your XK engine? I have been running at 8degrees initial but wondering if advancing to 12 degrees might be beneficial. I run only 93 octane gasoline.

Check your all in number: it should be about 33 to 36°, as measured at the crankshaft at about 3500 RPM.

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That measurement is with the vacuum advance hooked up correct?

Correct. Idle timing is really only to achieve a good, steady idle.

Ok I will try tomorrow, thanks

What Paul said. Hey, sexy manifolds! Paul.

Get yourself a vacuum gauge. Generally speaking, the setting that produces the strongest vacuum at idle will be pretty close.

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