The previous motor we had in our car was 9.3:1, 0.500" solid cam, Torquer SR heads, single 4-barrel, run on 93 pump gas. We got a good deal on an ignition system, 7AL-2 box, Pro Power coil, switchable RPM selector, and MSD Crank Trigger, and distributor. The distributor had the advance mechanism removed, and we ran the timing locked out at 32-36*. Now we're putting together another motor, 9.5-10.5:1, 0.645" solid roller cam, AFR 210 heads, tunnel ram w/ 2-450's, also on pump gas. We're going to use the same ignition system. My question is, should we utilize some kind of advance mechanism, or continue to run the timing locked out?

 

A crank trigger requires that the timing be locked out. If you look at a true crank trigger distributor you will find that it is really nothing more than a cap and rotor.

 

You will most likely end up in the 39 - 42 deg range and this might be a bit tough to start (turn over) depending on the cam. If you go back to a mechanical advance distributor, limit the advance to 20 deg or less, then crank in the initial. Tunnel rams can be tough to start sometimes and tend to backfire from being lean. You'll figure out what it wants, most people pump the gas 3 times or so before cranking. The advance can make this worse. Don't forget with a crank trigger your accessories will need to be spaced out because of the trigger wheel moving the pulley forward.

Also consider getting the HVC Propower coil, it will last longer on the street.