[Big-Foot]

Hi Nick,

It is the total timing where you will bring in the higher Torque levels. I have found that in the vast majority of cases, there is less than 5 Ft Lbs of torque in going beyond 34 degrees total.
If she's kicking back with 13, you can imaging what she would do with more. (detonation). While the SBC is more able to deal with detonation due to it's 5 headbolts per cylinder than SBF's are with 4 - it does not help the bearings and ring lands.
I rarely take SBC's beyond 10 initial and usually they are back around 8.
I'm really glad you have things worked out now.
Stay on the conservative side with your timing and run good fuel in her and she will last a long time..