The total timing should be between 33 and 36 degrees before top dead center revved up above 5000 RPM with a stock distributor so you get all the mechanical advance in at full advance. Set the timing at 33 before top dead center revved up at sea level and around 36 degrees above 3000 Ft above sea level Once you set the total timing check it at idle to see how much idle timing that motor has with that distributor
On the popping is it doing all the time or only under acceleration?
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