Could someone here please tell me where I should have my '85 318 engine timed at and where that number will be on the engine block mounted reference scale?

All I can make out is several horizontal lines on the engine mounted reference plate.

Thanks!

Lay under the rig so you can see the lines on the "balancer". Id imagine the timing was originally around 8 to 10 degrees. Look at the sticker under the hood to find it. With todays stuff they call gas you may need to advance the timing 2 to 4 degrees over the suggested mark..

I use a vac gauge on mine and use the light to see where it lands for referance.

most times the stock settings make it slugish.IMHO.

my 318 runs anywhere from 10* BTDC to 14* BDTC dpending on grade of gas I am running.

I use the vac gauge to set the timing to the highest vac reading. then adjust the air/fuel screws on the carb to fine tune the highest vac reading.

then back it down 1 full number on the gauge. and test drive. do a couple WOT pulls from different rpms and road speed.

if it pings I back the timing off a little more till it gives a WOT blast with no pinging.

I just make note of where the line is on the scale or guesstamate the line past the scale anytime I have it moved.

I made some small lines on my block and dist with paint so I can adjust it fast for 93 gas and a WOT run then back it down for the ride home.

are you still running the 2-v carb and stock elect ign. on the 85?

does it have the stock cam? small #302 318 heads?