timing on '68 toronado 455
 

Thanks for the help SVNT442 I got my car running. I have a '68 Oldsmobile cutlass that I installed a '68 toronado 455 and I'm having a hard time setting the timing. The timing marker has no numbers. Just a 0 notch in the marker that represents tdc and a squarish notch about an inch above tdc. I have had different timing settings given to me such as 10-12 degrees btdc but I can set the timing because I only have a regular timing gun not a digital one. If any one can tell where to set the timing on a marker with no number I would greatly appreciate it. Also since this is my first Oldsmobile motor can someone tell me what a good timing setting is?

Is there any way you can take a pic of the timing pointer? I have never seen one without numbers on it.
Like was said before 10°-12° is a good starting point. Check it with the vacuum advance disconnected from the canister and the hose plugged and with the engine @ 1100 RPM.

heres a pic of the timing marker
 

Thanks SVNT442, here's the pic bud. I sure do hope u can help me set this timing. I know its currently off....by the way you say to set the idle at 1100 rpm? I have the photo as an attachment.

That's the spec used when setting the timing, not at idle.

I have never seen a timing tab quite like that one, but If I had to hazard a guess the bottom of the lower "arrow" would be 0° and the top of the top "arrow" would be 12° BTDC. Each notch is 2°

How did you set the timing on this motor? I have the exact same problem and dont know what to set my timing at. I have a 68 olds 442 with a 400, HEI distributor with the same marks as yours.