Timing question - plugging the vacuum advance hose Options

[john_g]

I have only had experience using John Muir's static timing method with VW's, so am not used to the strobe light procedure for the 914. So, I have a number of questions:

1) To get a starting point, using a static timing light or voltmeter, what's the static timing mark to use with a '74 2.0 engine - 5º or 7.5º?

2) Before using the strobe light, some instructions say to remove the vacuum hose from the distributor, others say to remove AND plug it with something. What's correct? And, if I plug it, do I plug the hose end or the connector to the distributor, or both? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/confused24.gif)

Thanks.

[SLITS]

2.0L engine .... 27 degrees @ 3000 RPM** is what I use. No static numbers published as far as I know.

On a 74, there is only Vac Retard ... Vac Advance is not hooked up. You plug the line so that your idle doesn't go up from the vacuum leak you create. Plug the hose with a pen or pencil so that you don't have an open vac leak at the throttle body.

** Some say 3500 RPM, but as far as I am concerned, all mechanical advance should be in at 3000.