So I bought some lighter springs for my distributor. Originally it was hitting 36 deg at 3600 rpms Initial hits at 12. I was shooting for all in at 3000. It’s a 70s 302 the new lighter springs now have it all in at 2100rpms. I can tell a difference in gained get up and go but am wondering if I should instead shoot for the tried and true 3000 rpm mark. I run open headers so I can’t tell in I have ping or not at the new spring rate. It runs smooth all the way up to 3000 on the road and never skipped a beat. Is this safe to stay with or should I mix the springs up and get more toward 36 deg at 3000? why or why not?
I've had engines all over the RPM range for what they liked best for all in. It all depended on what cam the motor had. But 2100 seems pretty low.
Ok. I’m pretty sure I can get that with the springs I have. I guess I’m trying to understand why most say 3000 and others say 2000-2500. With a stock engine do I need to worry about ping or anything of that sort at a quicker all in?
You,ve asked a great question, Unfortunately i cannot answer. I just do it. 2500 to 3000. Next popular question pertaining to this subject is to use port or manifold vacuum? And mine dont ping on 87, but i got it set at 32. Might have to turn it up a bit.
It depends on your combination of engine size, cam, trans, rear gears, car weight. For example, a heavy car with a small engine and tall rear gears won't handle the advance rate that a small light car with a more powerful engine and stiff rear gears can use. On the dyno and road tests my car, shown in my signature, likes 34 degrees advance by 2800 rpm.