Kultulz is correct, the 289 2V carried over about half way thru the '68 production run. When the 302 replaced it, there was a standard 2V version as well as a J code 4V version, unique to '68 only. It was advertised at 230 horsepower, 10 to 1 compression, single point, dual diaphram distributor, thermactor system and a 4300 Autolite carb. I've only seen it in a Mustang (owned one 45 years ago) but was told it made it into a handful of Falcons. As mentioned the K code was gone and the J code was basically a replacement for the non hipo (225 horse) 4V 289.
As far as timing on Troutmalt's engine, it would be nice to see the dist. number so he could see what the specs were for it at production. But here's my take on this. Apparantly it has no vac advance, but did originally(?), if so then the thing will never see a total of 36 degrees with a base of 10. If it did, you would want it at about 1800-2000 rpm, cruising speed, for best vacuum/mileage. Regardless of what the factory specs list, an original K code full mechanical dual point was hard pressed to get a 32 degree total with a 12 degree intial at 5000 rpm, and it was turning alot less rpm's driving 70 mph even with the standard 3:89 gears in a '65-'66 Mustang.
Set your base timing at 10-12 degrees, hook up a vac gauge and bring the throttle up to 4000 rpms, if the vac gauge starts dropping off and the thing miss fires, then you have too much total advance, if not then leave it alone and drive it....Or go out and waste your money on an aftermarket distributor that you can tailor to your desired specs. But I'll let you in on a little secret, if this is a daily or part time driver, not a race car, then it won't run any better than it does now. Drive it, enjoy it
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. They were blended in the pump to deliver whatever octane you wanted.
