FORD TFI timing adjustment help

[Razor]

I've done this before. Need a quick hand. For some reason I can get the engine to run correctly when set.

Tell me where i'm going wrong.

To set timing using a TFI and an XFI, set the timing tables to a fixed 35 degree's. Start and warm up engine to operating temperature. Using a timing light, rev engine to 1500 rpms so its not at idle and set timing to 35 degree's on the balancer.

Problem is it runs like its retarded. Pops out the tail pipe, has a hard time reving, etc. If I advance the timing 10 degree's it runs better. Advance it some more runs great. revs quick and no issues.

My timing light has advance on it so I was advancing to 35 and setting the balancer on zero. I tried zero advance and setting timing to 35 degree's and its the same position on the distributor.

What am I doing wrong?

Engine ran fine before dis-assembly to repair a valve train issue. So distributor was pulled. I am using a program that the engine ran fine with so this is not a new setup. Same cam, same chain, etc.

[Razor]

Think I just remembered.. on the TFI you need to jump a wire.. got to dig that up.

Anyone off hand remember?

[Razor]

Got it

On the TFI harness is a blue and white strip wire going from the main harness to the TFI distributor. Clipping that wire puts timing to 10 degree's.

So.. I reset my distributor one more time, fired the car up.. clipped the wire.. and set my timing mark to 10 degree's. Whalla.. works like a champ I installed a male/female disconnect on the wire in case I need to go back here in the future.

Hope this helps someone in the future,