I know how intial timing is found (with a light of course) but how is the total timing found (I know its from the advance) but how do you know how far in degrees your advancing?
I know it's a related question but it would be so much better if you started your own thread with your question. It can get confusing when someone breaks in and asks a question that's different. Just sayin...
Joe answered but I'll put it another way. For the sake of using actual numbers lets say the initial timing is set at 5 degrees before TDC (with the vac advance unhooked and plugged). You then rev the engine up while watching the timing marks until it stops advancing more (you may have to rev it to 4000+ rpm to get full advance if the dist. is stock) and see how much it changes. (you need timing tape installed or a dial back light to see how much it changes). What ever it advances to is the total timing. Hopefully that's clearer than mud, LOL....