440 Power Timing, cant get above 2350 rpm in park

[nge]

Hi all,
I have done some research form this site and found some great links for  power timing the 440.  I was trying to follow the instructions and set timing to 38 BTDC at 2600-2800 rpm.  
I just cant get there.
I have a 440 with a Comp Cams 280H cam and a Street Demon carb (the newer Thermoquad/Quadrajet hybrid style)
When I turn the idle set screw all the way down I only get 2350 rpm.
Car seems to run fine, has good power.
What am I doing wrong?  Is something limiting the idle mixture screw at idle in Park?
can I just set 38BTDC at 2350 RPM.
Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks
Vic

[myk]

You're saying you can't get the car to idle above 2300 RPM?

[XH29N0G]

You're saying you can't get the car to idle above 2300 RPM?

This is also my question.  I wonder if the OP as trying to set the RPM at a specific level with the idle set screw to determine total timing, and that it is all in by 2600-2800.  If it is the latter, this may be all that the car will do with the idle set screw all the way in.  I don't remember what the situation was on my car when I did it.  My suggestion is:  if you only have a tach in the car, to get someone else to hold the RPM at a specified level while checking the timing, or raise it some other way, such as with a tach to read in the engine bay if you are doing it yourself.  I recall using the idle set screw to raise it initially (up to 1500 or 1800), but then did the rest, checking total and figuring out the advance curve with my son working the throttle.  I am sure there are other ways, and also learned that 38 degrees by 2600 is not universal.  I found I can only go up to ~32-33 total and needed bring in the last bit a little later in order to avoid detonation.

[myk]

I don't understand why the idle screw can't be set for a higher idle speed.  Personally, I would just try setting timing at 2350 RPM; it's close enough to 2600 RPM right?

[crj1968]

Just set your screw to normal and have someone rev the engine up to where you need while you turn the distributor.

[RECHRGD]

Just set your screw to normal and have someone rev the engine up to where you need while you turn the distributor.

X2.