Thinking about swapping from MPI(1996 502 Mag with cool fuel) to carb and I see conflicting answers on the distributor. Some say the current distributor won't work, and others say it will as there is a module in the distributor that will advance the time a set amount. Anyone know for sure?

Yes, i know for sure. In person too. It has advance. Starts and ends quick.

This is the same as the EST system and Delco Voyager system used on many carb’d systems - new and retrofit..

For it’s “timing curve’ See page 12 of pdf which is page 64 of the document.
https://f01.justanswer.com/oldneweng..._Delco+EST.pdf

Clearly shows why some think there is no advance.

I saw a few of your comments when I did my 712 searches.

How do you know the amount of advance? Or do you have to put a timing light on it to find out?

Just saw your second post. I will check it out.

If it's MPI isn't the timing advance controlled in the ECM?

When it’s controlled by the computer.

SB- so that dist is just a hall effect switch with no centrifical advance and he will have to switch dist won't he? Delco system on non EFI advance is built into the ignition module that is in dist. EFI advance is controlled only through ECM
I,m not positive just asking.

Magnetic pickup.

Module controls dwell (very well i may add. Lots ‘o spark )

also has an advance curve in it in case not used for EFI. Very quick curve. Starts heavily at 600rpm. See thise pdf pages i noted above.

GM for the win.

If you are switching over , keep in mind it’s age.