Yes, I have timed it many ways. So the engine is 24 years old. Flat top pistons, Iron Gm heads, that have been milled at least twice. Split duration cam with @.480" lift.
1st my dampener markings and cover pointer don't match.
So I have timed it for best vacuum. Ran great, but it pinged. I have trouble hearing it ping, my heard it, so it started retarding the timing, and test driving, with boat in tow, so was working hard.
Ran like this for awhile. Then I switched back and forth from ported to manifold vacuum a few times. I still think there is preignition, So I measured and marked the dampener for correct tdc for cover pointer and timed with a light to 4° btdc. Is 4° btdc and on ported vacuum now.
Today I reassembled carb, new gaskets, accel pump, went through all adjustments. Still runs rich, is dripping fuel from primary boosters. I didn't change the needle and seat, they are @ a year old, the seat is a large .140" orifice. The float is 20+ years old. I ordered a new float, 1 that will tolerate ethanol.
I don't trust the the little summit brand fuel pressure gauge at the regulator, read 6 psi, I am going to test the pressure with another gauge. Everyone say 4-7 psi. The Holley Red label pump is rated at max pressure 7 psi.
It runs and I'm going to leave together for the moment. I have a new garage door going in the rear of the rv garage (Shop), so I need to clear a path and for the work to be done.
maybe Thursday or Friday can et back at it.
I think I need to run octane booster, give it the timing it wants. Or maybe new engine time ??? Big Block ??