I have a 1968 ss 396/325 hp, m-20 4 speed with quadrajet, everything original except HEI Ignition. I just installed intake and carb and now need to set timing. I have never done this before. Can someone please help me, step by step process. I have a timing light (Actron Inductive timing Light CP7504). Dave

Dave. A comprehensive list:

- distributor is out
- plugs out will help turn engine easier
- use a wrench on the balancer center bolt to turn engine clockwise
- set no 1 cylinder (driver front) on TDC in compression stroke (both valves will be closed, you can feel the pressure build up as you turn the engine)
- check that the mark on the balancer is opposite the mark on the timing tab
- choose one wire on the dist. cap to be no 1
- this will app. come at the 5:40 (clock position) when you have the dist finally mounted (this is to your liking, any position will do as long as your wires will fit)
- mark the base with a pen where this no 1 wire is
- remove the cap
- watch the rotor inside and point it to this no1 wire (watch the inner and outer pickup notches in the dist. and aim to have them opposite each other)
- it will help you to use a rubber band to lock the rotor in this position
- hold the dist. in the 5:40 clock position and note the position of the hookup for the oil pump at the bottom
- take a long screwdriver (or something like it) and position the oil pump in the block the same as the dist. hookup
- now turn the oil pump c.c.w. some 30 degrees
- slide the dist into the block. You will notice when it is fully seated it has rotated clockwise the same 30 degrees
- the pen mark should be at the 5:40 position now.
- mount the hold down clamp finger tight
- mount the wires (18436572?). The rotor will turn clockwise when the engine is running
- this should allow you to start the engine
- remove the vacuum hose and block it
- set initial timing with your timing light and reconnect vacuum hose

Mind you. The HEI might have a different mechanical timing than your old dist. has. The same goes for the vacuum canister. This will alter your total timing curve.

Rob