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View Full Version : need help on timing a 396 with locked out distributor



xp537
04-29-2008, 04:28 PM
I have a 68 camaro with a 396 30 over, air gap intake, 750 dp, mild cam, 3500 stall, 400 tranny, headers with a msd drop in distributor that is locked out so what should the timing be set at with the distributor set up like this . the car was running fine like this before I changed the intake I dont know what it was set at before I want to say it was like 22 but not sure any help will be appreciated
thanks LES

yellowrallys
04-30-2008, 08:41 AM
Can you explain "locked out" distributor a little more?

xp537
04-30-2008, 02:03 PM
locked out meaning theres no springs or weights in the distribritor

the camtender
04-30-2008, 06:41 PM
36-38%

xp537
05-01-2008, 03:35 AM
at what rpm do I set the timing at

the camtender
05-01-2008, 04:05 AM
at what rpm do I set the timing at
it doesn't matter if it's locked out(idle,1000rpm)starter want like it,you'll probably need an ignition box or other box to retard timing on start up.

xp537
05-01-2008, 01:38 PM
yes your right about the motor not liking the timing set at 36 because I tried it today and couldnt get it to start. it starts fine at 22 to 25 . what kind of box are you talking about because I really dont want to use a msd al box is there anything else that I can use to retard the timing on starting I have the msd ready to run distributor in it now thanks alot

the camtender
05-01-2008, 03:50 PM
yes your right about the motor not liking the timing set at 36 because I tried it today and couldnt get it to start. it starts fine at 22 to 25 . what kind of box are you talking about because I really dont want to use a msd al box is there anything else that I can use to retard the timing on starting I have the msd ready to run distributor in it now thanks alot

motor should like 36%,even at start up ,its the starter thats gonna have a hard time. msd makes a seperate start/retard box I believe its part #8982 about $150. kinda of expensive unless you need it for an additional retard for like nitrous.If not, it would be cheaper just to unlock dist ?
Jerry

xp537
05-01-2008, 06:41 PM
ok thanks jerry I found the part in jegs catalog I think I will start the car then advance the timing and drive it to make sure it likes it at 36 then order the part
thanks again
LES