Is there a way to set the timimg without the timing light?
I don't have it (and those, that can work with 8cyl engines, are too expensive here) :( .
It was qite easy to doit on russian cars-start the car and let it idle, turn the distributor 'till you reach the highest idle,adjust the idle on the carb and here you are...
But it's not working with my chevy :( - even with the vac. advance unhooked the ignition is too advanced(you know-hard to start the engine,pinging and so on).
What can i do about it?
The engine is mild SBC 350, no EGR, stock GM HEI and qjet...
Damn, life sucks - my battary refused to work today - and i've bought it in apr'06... The charging system IS FINE... Damn russan spares-there is NO warranty on battareis - so,another one 70$ are wasted(and this almost a 1/3 of my monthly income), the gas prices climbs higher and higher - they are almost 2.6$ per gallon now :(
Oh, by the way :) There are Chevelle`66 selling in Moscow... It is 4dr. sedan (not even a hardtop), 250cid inline 6, manual trans, no power steering/brakes/windows, rusted... The price is WEIRD - 4200$... It'll be cheaper to import such a car from U.S. - at least it'll be in better condition... ;)

What's the difference between a timing light for an 8 cyl vs. 4? Put the pick-up on #1 cyl and have at it.

Otherwise, you can get a decent time setting by hand... but as you've noticed, your first try is almost always too advanced- engine is not hot enough. Just back it off a little, then take a test drive. Back it off little by little until it doesn't ping anymore.

Yes, kindof.
Take off the distributor cap. Turn the engine till the rotor almost points to the number one cylinder. Look at the timing marks and turn the motor slightly till the timing mark on the balancer aligns with your desired initial timing. Then loosen the distributor and align the distributor pickup coil "arrows". Tighten the distributor.
Excepting excessive play in your distributor, this will get you very close to your desired timing.
Mike