I would like to retard the timing 2-3*, is that counter clock wise and about 1/4" turn

Right direction. 2 or 3* is barely moving the dist at all so if you feel it turn, you probably went too far. I would get a timing light so you can tell how too far you went and put it back where you want it. Anything else is just guessing and unless you have done this a bunch, you will likely guess way wrong.

Kevin

thanks, that is what I thought

All you need to do is paint a mark on the base of distributer and the eng block and you will know where you were and how far you moved the dist.