Taarzaahn

My old cam was totally worned out when I bought the car and now I have a new Comp cam in it (I got it very cheap) it is a Magnum 270 set with new lifters. My Q is how much should the initally ignition be set at 800 RPM? Original is 10 degrees and my engine is a 1974 454 original else except headers. It is a man 4 speed.

MelWff

If you are using the stock distributor weights and springs you still set it for 10 degrees. If you modify the distributor mechanical advance curve you set the total timing for 36 degrees.

drwet

Your cam has a little more duration than your stock cam. You will find that 12-14 degrees of initial advance works a little better. Do a search on this site and you will find a lot of information on how to set up your advance curve. Check it out and take the time to set it up properly. Best bang for the buck you'll ever get.

Taarzaahn

Thanks I heard the same from friends and to set more advance also makes the engine running a little more smoth. I did tried 15 degrees and it is running more smooth now so I think I stay there.

Taarzaahn

I exchange the stock distributor for a HEI the old one was weared out in bushings so...... But I dont know how much the new one goes mechanical.