[JimM]

I like to work backwards, start the tune for good idle, tip in response, and midrange, then recurve the mechanical advance for the correct total timing.

Most of the cars I've tuned like a LOT of initial, assuming you're not ping limited due to too much compression. My car runs GREAT with 18 degrees initial and another 18 from vacaum on full manifold. That's right, idling with 36 degrees in it!

As long as it will crank hot, and not ping at part throttle with the vac advance unhooked, you don't have too much initial. If it pings at part throttle with vac advance, get an adjustable canister and tune it out.

Continually work the idle speed, idle mixture, and then power valve / primary metering rods as you do this.

Jim