Distributor timing problem

[1971 vw van]

Hello,
I Have a 1973 Super Beetle purchased it last year. The motor is a 1600 duel port with an RV cam, no spacifics on the cam, i have the newer 009 type distributor with the Vacuum & mechanical advance. if i set the timing at 7.5 degrees it runs horrible, carb coughs and wont hardley excelerate, the more i advance it the better its running, What would be the best timing mark for it? Or could it be a vacume leek at the carburator somewhere? I squrted WD40
around the carb and could not find a leek. Any Thoughts Or advice would help.
Thank You.

[dustrat]

009 Distributor does not have vacuum advance only mechanical advance. Check on side of distributor for number and come back on forum for more info on timing.
Robert

[surfbeetle]

Max timing should be 30 at 3000 rpm. Whatever degree it ends up at idle is usually ok. And yes, 009 is mechanical advance only, no vacuum canister. Now I used to have to smog my car, I ran an 009 but mocked up a vacuum canister to pass smog only, check and make sure what the numbers are on the side of the distributor.

[mlrailguy]

Just got my 2332 finished. Running the FK8 cam. At 1000 rpm, which is where it idles best, it showing 38* BTDC. This is the Pertronix Flamethrower dizzy with the light tension springs installed. I haven't even revved it up yet, just doing breakin.

[Dale M.]

Where it "idles best" is not always the best for performance when setting timing.... As distribuitor advances it takes you out another 20-30 degrees into no mans land.... Its all about where timing is set at normal driving rpm up around 3000 rpm give or take 1000 rpm....

Dale