I have a 1991 302. It pings when I use regular gas and I have narrowed down to timing because the vacuum is good and it isn't running hot. So since the timing has to be adjusted I want to advance it. How many degrees should it be advanced?
Thanks

 

It's supposed to be set 10* BTDC, if it's not then I would start by resetting it to that. If it's already at 10* move it in 1* increments, I wouldn't go past 12* with a stock setup, you may also want to check the gap on your plugs to ensure they haven't spread.

 

If it pings now, you want to retard the timing not advance it. If you advance the timing, it will just ping worse. I would retard the timing 2 degrees from wherever it is now and see what it does. I assume you have a timing light. Don't forget to remove the spout connector while setting the timing.

 

I don't have a timing light I have a backyard mechanic I bring it to.

How can timing get advanced without adjusting it?

 

I'm not understanding the meaning of your question. Do you want to know why it started pinging without adjusting the timing?

 

If the timing was never adjusted what would cause it to become advanced resulting in the engine pining

 

Could be a bit of carbon buildup on the pistons. Poorer quality fuel. Hard to say. Usually the cure for pinging is to retard the timing a bit.

 

I have been running high test for about 6 months so I doubt it's carbon. I'll retard the timing and try that

 

Just normal wear on the timing chain will change it a little. Or someone could have adjusted it a little for you.

 

What should the gap be?


Can anyone recommend a coil and wires? I have an MSD distributor.