Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) timing degrees?

[ksoren24]

I have a 97 auto, It has 255k on it and I'm going to get the timing set. I don't know where it is at now and its probably time if its never been done before. My question is what should I get it set at? When I tow it's only a 3500 pound boat. I usually tow at about 70mph give or take which is about 1875 rpm. I've heard that changing your timing moves your power band. I'm going to do a few power mods after I get it set but nothing crazy. I'm thinking a #10 fuel plate, 3k springs, 4" exhaust, and a boost elbow. Where should I get it set to so I'm in the power band at 1875 rpm?

 

[Hammer]

No more than 16. 5 degrees of timing without studding and o-ringing the head or you run the risk of pushing out the head gasket.

 

[GAmes]

My question is what should I get it set at? When I tow it's only a 3500 pound boat. I usually tow at about 70mph give or take which is about 1875 rpm. I've heard that changing your timing moves your power band.

Are you sure about those RPMs at 70? With my 3. 5 rear, stock tires and the old NV4500, 5th gear 70 mph was above 2200 IIRC. With this G56 6th gear 70 mph is even higher.

Even 15. 5 will move you power band above 1875. A GSK will move it higher also. If you look at the data plate on the left side of the gear case it will tell you what the stock setting is. My '97 215 engine is 13. 5 and yours is probably close to that. If you are really towing at about 1900 rpm I personnally would try 15 degrees, then adjust from there. The GSK is only good for you if you need power at 2600 or higher. 4 inch exhaust sounds cool, but if you don't need a new exhaust save your money, a 10 plate won't put you in the hp range where you need one.

 

[CKelley1]

i agree with gams stay at 15*