Depends on where you live and what grade of gas you use, 12 degrees is safe all around.
www.motorcraft.com shows the ignition timing for a 1979 F150 with the 460 cubic inch ( 7.5 liter ) V8 , automatic transmission , as 14 degrees BTDC
Firing order is : 1 3 7 2 6 5 4 8
To repair the ignition system of a 1979 Datsun 620 pickup, first, check the battery and connections for corrosion or loose wires. Next, inspect the ignition coil, distributor cap, rotor, and spark plugs for wear or damage, replacing any faulty components as needed. Ensure that the points in the distributor are properly gapped and functioning. Finally, verify that the ignition timing is set correctly using a timing light to ensure optimal engine performance.
The Oldsmobile engines typically had a fairly high initial timing....coming in at 18-20 degrees before TDC. That's assuming you're talking about a fairly stock 403.
26-28 Before Top-Dead-Center (BTDC) in euro model at 3000rpmapprox. 8 degrees at idle
According to the 1984 Chilton's Auto Repair Manual,the ignition timing on all 1979 Ford 302s would be 6 degrees before top dead center.The factory allows a tolerance of plus or minus 2 degrees.
With automatic transmission ( 6 degrees BTDC ) With automatic transmission and dual mode ignition timing ( 12 degrees BTDC ) With manual transmission ( 10 degrees BTDC ) According to motorcraft . com
The timing points setting for a 1979 International 345 engine typically involves setting the ignition timing to around 5 to 10 degrees before top dead center (BTDC) at idle. This can vary slightly depending on the specific application and any modifications made. It’s important to use a timing light to ensure accurate adjustments, and always refer to the vehicle’s service manual for exact specifications and procedures.
A 1979 Chevrolet pickup does not have a timing belt, it has a timing chain. The chain will last the life of the engine and is normally replaced during an engine overhaul.
10* BTDC for all 1973-1979 manual trans trucks, except California 6* BTDC for all 1973-1979 California trucks, auto or manual trans 6* BTDC for all 1973-1979 auto trans trucks.
For a 1979 Chevrolet Blazer with a small block 400 engine, the timing specification is typically set at 8-12 degrees before top dead center (BTDC) at idle, depending on the specific engine setup and any modifications. It’s important to check the vehicle's service manual or specifications, as factors like compression ratio and ignition system can affect the ideal timing. Additionally, always ensure that the timing is adjusted with the engine warmed up and running smoothly.
There are no timing settings to set in a 1979 Grand Prix. The 3.4 L and the 3.1L and the 3.8 L that Pontiac used in its lineups all had computer controlled timing.