Total timing advance, discuss!

[itstock]

I'll be running Uberdata soon once i get my new engine in my car, and tuning it myself with a friend. Im just curious to see what experienced people have to say what is a *safe* total timing advance to run on a d16 engine (forged rods/pistons) anywhere between 12-14 psi. My buddies running Uberdata on his d16 and hes running around 17-18* total advance timing just to be safe, anyone care to add your knowledgeable $.02?

EDIT: just realized that theres a new engine management forum, this should probably be moved over there, i apologize.

[TurboEF9]

Guess it really depends on where you start (or your start is) as to where you end up?

Basically, there are two methods of retarding. Linear, and Step. Linear is more common, and safer, yet doesn't yeild as much power. This is where you'll end up with those 12-20 degrees of retard. Anywhere from .7-.9 degree per psi.

With a step retard, you'll have more power, obviously because the rate of retard is less radical. Retarding .25 degress per every 3 psi build across the map. (Ex: 0-3 none, 3+ (to the end of the map) retard the column .25, from 6+ retard the map another .25, from 9+ retard yet another .25 and so on) This will only end up yielding about a 1.5 degree of retard as the map gets higher. An accurate fuel table would need to be tuned for this to be considered reliable.

Now to directly answer your question, I would do a linear retard until you hit the dyno and can accuratly tune a step retard. I'd start with .8 or .9 degree for the street. That should yeild about a 12-16 degree overall retard. (Of course, depending on your base ignition tables)