how much timing should the esc be putting on the engine at idle?? because my 86 tpi is throwing a code 43 and the base timing is set to 6* but with esc hooked up at idle it has something like 28* of advance and when you snap the throttle it retards the timing then eventually readvances it...and the motor has a bad stumble...any ideas?

 

6º is correct. The ESC will advance is 20º or more, and adjust it as necessary to match the tables and KS input. The stumble may not be due to the timing.

 

Did you disconnect the ESC connector? If so, that's what's throwing your code 43. If not, then you need to start diagnosing the problem.
Could be your spark module, wiring, or knock sensor.