Timing Curve
OK, OK, hard not to start having "more" ideas when trying to do one first thing! So, yes, I wanted to start the curve earlier as you suggested, with some slight lengthening of spring. But thinking it needed to get to total advance sooner as well (to match what I thought I saw in your drawn curve.) I didn't think starting earlier would affect that, but wasn't sure.
These comments are based on my assuming that you were advising to not change spring length AND stiffness at the same time? Correct? :)
I'll get another graphed curve in a few days and see where it's at. I do really appreciate the help in understanding all this!!