[rich weyand]

Been working, so just went through the last three pages. Coupla notes.

With a stock HEI and stock advance curve you should be able to set the base timing to 16* BTDC with no problems, and it will really improve performance.

RPM you set the timing at doesn't matter as long as you don't start kicking in the mechanical (centrifugal) advance. Anywhere under 1000 rpm is OK.

Warm engine idle in Park for stock engines is 700, in Drive is 550.

Any drop-in bed liner or pad will give rust problems like you see. It traps condensation and water. Spray-in bed liner on top with undercoating on the bottom is best for rust prevention. A good undercoating is better than paint on the bottom becuase rocks won't nick it and open up a path to the metal.