Yes, but the Eurospec motor may not have the 10 degrees of retard built
into the vacuum advance/retard distributor?  It is an emission item (a
retarded engine runs hotter, burns cleaner at idle.)

                                                            Jay

Steve Cotsford <Cotsford@AOL.COM>@gerry.vanagon.com> on 05/02/2002 08:04:15
PM

Please respond to Cotsford@AOL.COM

Sent by:    Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>

To:    vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
cc:
Subject:    Re: Advancing timing for more power, was: Boston Bob's web site

I too run my 1.9 l at 5 deg BTDC, ever since I saw that the Euro spec for
that year '84 was 10 deg BTDC.    I know that the gas in USA may not be of
the same octane etc.
I also think the compression ratio is higher in Europe too.

I still maintain that it's the total advance that really matters, under
load
at that.
Probably this is what should be checked with a timing light.    I admit I
havent done it though.        Idle timing can be where it wants to be.

Probably the ignition is retarded on US vehicles for emissions reasons and
some power is thus sacrificed.
If the engine doesn't ping under heavy loads, its probably safe.  Mine
doesn't.
I enjoy the little extra pick-up and I get 20 -21 mpg on regular gas with
a/c.   It doesnt seem to improve without a/c.     Most of my cruising is 70
-80 mph.

Cheers,  Steve Cotsford