Transfer/Transition slot adjustment
One thing I'd like to know is how to determine the total mech advance of the dist. The "T-bar" with the slots in it has the number 30 stamped into it as I recall, which seemed really high but then again, when it's set between 5-8 it runs "ok" so maybe it's right. if that's the number, then I don't need to worry about finding what it is. If not, how does one do that off engine and no distributor machine? Also, the advance pod has "7R" so I believe that means it can add up to 14 under load?
The thing with the slots I call the 'slots'or athe 'plate' but IIRC Chrysler calls the governer.
I can't guess what the number might be on it but probably not 30.
9, 11, 13, 15 range are the most common. Some will be R others L, some with cut slanted which effects the rate of advance.
Anyway those are the maximum degrees of distributor advance. Double that for the degrees of advance on the engine. With an electronic distributor particularly, assume in actual use a few degrees less.
The vac arm you interpret correctly.
How To Limit and Adjust Chrysler Vacuum Advance Cans
To see the effect of changes without a distributor machine, use the engine, a timing light, and a tachometer.
measure and write down the timing from as low of rpm as you and then at a number of points at higher rpm.
I like pictures so I plot the points on a graph.
it's possible to ballpark changes by making a pointer and a degree wheel.
Oil pressure at start is around 60, then settles to around 25-27 when warmed up. We're considering bumping to 10-40 or even 15-40 since we're in south TX and it doesn't really get cold here.
I think that 60 psi cold and 25psi hot at 650 rpm is great. As long as the pressure rises back to 60psi on the highway I'd stay with your current viscosity grade whatever it is.