What is the correct timing for a Chevy 454?

The timing on stock 396, 402, 427 and 454 engines is 32-34 degrees total advance at 3500 rpm. This is for an engine with stock camshaft, heads, stroke, and a compression ratio of 10:1. The high-performance versions are slightly higher with a maximum advance of 38 degrees on premium fuel, if the camshaft warrants it.

How much horsepower does a 1978 Chevy 454 have?

The 454 engine produced about 230 horsepower and 360 foot-lbs. of torque.

What is initial timing?

The term “Initial Timing” refers to the amount of Ignition Timing applied to the engine at idle.

How do I get more power out of my Chevy 454?

How Do I Get More Power out of a Chevy 454?

  1. Improve the fuel and air intake system.
  2. Replace the stock exhaust system with a high-flow system.
  3. Replace the stock timing parts with ones tuned for racing.
  4. Bolt on a supercharger.

What generation is a 1978 454?

GM developed variations of the BBC known as Mark IV, Gen V and Gen VI. The 1978 454, a member of the Mark IV BBC series of engines, was not available in passenger cars.

What should timing be set at on a 454?

The timing on stock 396, 402, 427 and 454 engines is 32-34 degrees total advance at 3500 rpm. This is for an engine with stock camshaft, heads, stroke, and a compression ratio of 10:1. The high-performance versions are slightly higher with a maximum advance of 38 degrees on premium fuel, if the camshaft warrants it.

When did Chevy come out with the 454?

Chevy launched the Mark IV V-8s in 1965, but the 454 didn’t arrive until 1970. And its timing couldn’t have been worse. The 454 wielded massive horsepower and torque for two years before General Motors detuned its engines beginning in 1972 to accommodate stricter federal emissions and safety standards.

How do you set the timing on a Chevy big block?

Shine the timing light carefully down the driver’s side of the front of the engine at the harmonic balancer. Turn the timing knob on the timing light until the white line on the balancer is lined up with the 0-degree mark on the timing plate. Read the number under the pointer on the knob on the back of the timing light.

What is the first year 454 engine?

The Chevrolet 454 engine was a part of the 2nd generation of Chevrolet big block engines. The first generation of Chevy big block engines was introduced in 1958 , with the 2nd generation being introduced for production vehicles in beginning in 1965. The introduction of the 454 engine did not actually begin until 1970.