I have checked my timing and at 700 to 800 rpm, I am sitting at about 7 Degrees of advance. Is this right? Also, just a note, at 2800 rpm, I am at 44 degrees.

How does this stack up to what it should be?

Stock is 5 degrees, but total advance is not in the 40s. It is generally agreed that a total of 36 degrees is optimum. You are getting too much total advance. Most early Zs can be set up to 12 degrees at idle to get a total of 36 degees. Maybe someone recurved your distributor.

Okay, I dont think I was completely clear with my situation, my apologies.

Its been a long time since I had to do timing on an old car, my trans am ran a mechanical advance MSD distributer.

When you check the timing, are you suppose to disconnect the vacuum advance?

Gosh I feel like a moron for asking that!

Okay, I dont think I was completely clear with my situation, my apologies.

Its been a long time since I had to do timing on an old car, my trans am ran a mechanical advance MSD distributer.

When you check the timing, are you suppose to disconnect the vacuum advance?

Gosh I feel like a moron for asking that!

Yes, you have to disconnect the vacuum advance.

Thanks, was researching my "How to rebuild your L Series: last ngiht and found that exact statement.

So I should be looking for 5 BTDC and no more than 36 degrees at say 3500 rpm without the vacuum advance then.

I will let you know, by the way I am running the Pertronix on my car.

FWIW, I run 31 degrees total advance. No vacuum advance Weights have been locked. Rev engine to 4k, set timing with an electronic light at 31 degrees.

Good luck.