Depends on your combo, most seem to like 32-34. I think GM specs their crate engines with them at 32. The last marine 350 crate I dyno'd only showed about 2hp difference between 30 and 34 total.

10 years ago I dynoed a 355 with ported Vortecs on Baker engineering's chassis dyno, The way I remember it they really liked 32 degrees total timing, with 34 they made close to the same power but motor ran hot, at less it started giving up hp and tq quickly, I will check my notes and re-post if i find different when I review my old dyno sheets, Smitty

While I do want to get the most performance possible, my other concern is to avoid to much advance and detonation.

Thanks for all your info.

I just noticed you are taking about a Small Bock. Not sure what to set those at.

I will go with 30 degrees to keep on the safe side.

i have a 350ho motor with vortec heads,msd full ignition,ngk 6plugs and the timing is at 32 to 34 at wot and i run about 5200 to 5500rpms