Initial timing

What is the total timing? 30 is a lot of initial and I doubt it has an 8 degree curve in it.

If it idles at 30 degrees and you back it off to 15 and it wont idle, that is normal. The idle will drop when you pull initial away. Adjust your idle setting.

You really need to start by setting your total to 38, lock it down and see where your initial falls. That may be all you need. If you need more initial, you will need to restrict the advance.