"It sure is maddening to get c
"It sure is maddening to get charged for making things worse! Some engines need the ignition grounded (or whatever) to set the base ignition timing (ie: at idle). However, if you are up to a bit of math, and some minor work, you can get the timing perfect for a mimimal outlay of cash. The trick is to time the engine at high rpm, which is the most accurate way of doing it.
First of all, find the timing marks. If they are on the damper pulley (probably) measure the outside diameter of the pulley and multiply this figure by 3.14. That will give you the perimeter of the pulley. Divide that figure by 360 (degrees) and that's the distance around the pulley per degree. Next, try to find out what the timing is at FULL advance (around 26 to 30 degrees). Multiply the degrees you need by the perimeter measurement, then mark the pulley at that distance. Then, with the engine in neutral and turning about 3,000 rpms, set the distributor at that mark. (While you're there, see that the advance is working properly--the mark should jump ahead as you rev the motor, and dart back as you idle it down.) Don't have a timing light? You can buy one at Harbor Freight for minimal cash--well under 30 bucks.
Jeff
PS: This is hte method used by all good engine tuners: drag racers, NASCAR, etc."