Getting it all in as quickly as possible has always worked for me. The lightest springs usually on function as a retard to make starting easier. Once the car is started all timing is in at idle.
iagree 25* initial and all in by 1,800 at the very least.
So why not lock it out and be done with it?
Mine won't start with 34* initial. 25* is the max. It will hit the starter when hot but will go ahead and tick over.
20* to 26* is typically the most initial that will allow a combo like the OP has to start on a hot day on pump gas. If his will start at full advance; COOL! Go for it. But most won't.
