The problem with adding spark advance at distributor is the ECM does not know about it. I've seen lots of times it's OK to add 5*... it's not!
Yes it will run better when warm, but there's a few spots it will get knock counts and retard timing by more then you added. Also that extra 5* is killer when you have another table called "SA - Coolant Comp Spk Adv" which adds 10* when cold, depending on ambiant temps.
Then add 5* when in PE "Power Enrichement" and again, it's OK in spots and causes knock in others.
There's also a ESC "Electronic Spark Control" test done in these ECM when you enter PE, it adds 11* timing to force knock! Now you added 5* to that... if that's not bad enough and you run high octane? It won't knock at 11 so the second test adds 22*, with your unaccounted for 5* that's 27*
I remove this ESC test. Not sure why anyone would want forced knock?
Newer OBDII systems have a High Octane and Low Octane table, it runs off High Octane until it see's knock activity, then reduces spark to low octane. Our systems don't have high octane or learn so the ESC knock test is just to prove the knock sensor works, at the worst time! WOT!
Here's what a stock spark advance table looks like for 90-91 5.7L
Here's what the engine likes! Now with a table like this you do have to remove the ESC test, some Coolant spark adder and PE to make it safe for all conditions of daily driving and towing.
