How much advance should I run at idle my /6, head shaved .100 (around 9.2:1 compression), oversized .040, everything else is stock (carter BBS 1bbl) For now I set it at 5 BTDC, but the engine picks up some RPM as I advance timing. I also want to run on pump gas, 87 octane.

Thanks, Fred

The engine will run well with 8-10 degrees BTDC initial timing and around 30 degree total advance.
The total advance should be set so it is "all-in" at you typical highway RPM. (appx 2800 RPM?) What gear ratio is in the car?

The vacuum advance should be the last adjustment. Try to use an adjustable vacuum pod that has a lot of advance (11x) and set the rate so you do not get spark knock at light acceleration / part throttle.

Most factory distributors will need some "recurving" to perform as outlined above.
DD

It does feel like running better with around 10 degrees at idle. I have 3.23 gears so I cruise around at 2500 to 3000 rpm. I also hear a rattling noise when I give it gas, doesnt sound like detonation, more like something shaking/loose, only when I give it gas. I played with the timing and the sound didnt change. I really dont want to rebuild the block again.

Where can I get an adjustable vacuum pod? Should I buy an electronic distibutor conversion kit? I hve points right now with an MSD 6A and blaster SS coil, seems to run fine.

Thanks, Fred