Off topic-but Ford and V8

roccaas

roccaas

Well-known member
As a Model A guy, we just set our timing so the durn thing runs.

I'm looking at a '68 Mustang with a 302 and some performance ignition parts.

Current owner is running Premium 93 octane. This will be a daily driver, so I'd like to dial it back to Regular 87 octane, and go to mid grade if detonation is a problem.

I remember as a kid, my Dad had the Impala SS 396 dialed back on the timing to run lower octane when the '73 Oil Embargo hit.

Does anyone have a reliable site for information on doing this with "modern" ignitions? I'll have to do some checking under the hood before taking the car on, and see what parts are there and whether they are adjustable.

I have gone to several of the thousands of classic Mustang Forums, but most of their stuff is racing/performance related.

Thanks
 
You should be able to retard/dial back the timing a little even with performance type ignition.
 
The original 302 in the late 60's into early 70 used regular fuel with a two barrel 2100 carb . They then went to more power with the four barrel 4100 carb. I believe you can take most 302 engines and put on the two barrel and it will work with regular fuel mine does fine with regular and a two barrel
Larry
 
If that's the only mods made to the engine, set it to factory specs and run it on reg. It's the other type of mods that start requiring timing changes. Even a high perf engine will run at stock specs, just won't achieve peak performance.
 
If you can get me the numbers off the engine I can track it back through my Motors repair manual from 72, If it has not been modified with a cam, 4 barrel and ignition/ distributor system it should run fine on 87 or 89. I can get you the plug type, gap, compression ratio and a few other specs, maybe point gap. Hopefully it's not been messed with too much in the last 42 years.
 
Put the 87 octane in the car. Dial back the distributor advance some and test drive. If no pinging, bring the advance up a little till it just starts to ping - then dial back a little.
 
Thank you Gentlemen!

You've put my mind at ease.

Mallory ignition
4 bbl double pumper
5:1 final drive ratio - drag car!
302 Crate from early 2000's
Edelbrocks
drum brakes, bald tires of beautiful American Racing Wheels
No PS/PB/AC
Fiberglass trunk lid with "Shelby Spoiler". Trunk is warped.

I think I'll pass on this one, but it was fun to get it sideways.
 
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