Well i could do with a base setting, as again the Haynes manual is as much use as an ashtray on a motorcycle.
My engines a 305, theres absolutely NO emmision gear [cat is in the bin] and single straight through exhaust pipe to the backbox.
I'm using a mallory HEI distributor [ 8548201C] with the matching coil and the vacumn advance is hooked up.
I know the idea is start with a base setting, and keep advancing till you hear it pinking then back it off.
All i need is an approximate starting point to try that wont be too retarded or too advanced.

 

At idle it should be somewhere around 10 degrees btdc. You should also check timing at 3000-4000 rpm. Youll need a timing light with an adjustable advance. Id start at abou 28 or so in that range. That second measurment will give you your total timing.

 

Thanks, i will give that a try.
Despite having a Snap On timing light, its been a long time since its been used i can tell you, its a rare occasion to find a moveable dizzy. Actually found cobwebs inside the timing light case.
And why the manual is so obscure about a lot of things beats me.