[bobcowan]

Manipulating the timing curve for power requires dyno time, because the results are subtle.

Set base timing with a vacuum gauge. Adjust the timing where the vacuum is highest at idle rpm. Should be around 12-14*.

Total timing should about 36*, all in by 3,200 rpm's or so. That should work well for most combos. IIRC, the Mallory has a maximum advance of 28* in the mechanical advance.

The actual advance curve can be tricky. For power, you want it to come on fairly quickly, and then taper a bit so you don't get detonation as the cylinder pressure rises. But if it comes on too quick, and conditions are not ideal, you can detonate if you lug the engine a bit.

I'd start out with purple and gray springs, and see how that goes. Do your testing on a hot day.