I use the instructions supplied by Comp Cams. It takes a little longer, but I get a perfect adjustment every time.
Intake: when the exhaust valve is just starting to open
Exhaust: When the intake vale is half way to closing
https://www.compcams.com/pub/media/p...1/5/151_4_.pdf
A lot of people say to tighten the nut until you can't turn the push rod any more, then add 1/2 turn. But with modern materials and lubes, you can sometimes turn the push rod after it is properly adjusted. Instead, spin the nut by hand as far as you can. That's zero lash.
For timing, a specific base number is impossible to tell ahead of time. You have a custom engine, and will need a custom setting.
With the engine warmed up, disconnect any vacuum advance and set base timing at 12-15* or so. Place a glass of water on the body of the car; at the base of the windshield in the middle works well.
Now adjust the timing until the engine is running the smoothest. Watch the ripples in the glass of water to see where it's the smoothest. Check with a timing light to see where you're at, and make sure it's not some ridiculous number.
You can use the same method to set your idle mixture.
Changing the idle mixture will change your base timing, and vice versa. Go back and forth between the two until it's really smooth.
During all of these adjustments, try not to burn your shin on the side pipes.
That was hot work. Drink the glass of water.
