Another Timing Question

[scouttster]

So, if my matchmarks on my crank and cam are in sequence with each other and my number 1 piston is at top dead center. I matchmark the marks on the distributor( like in the picture / link below ) and just put it in its place insuring that matchmark is pointing at the #1 wire my timing is set correctly? This is all there is to it? Do I need to advance or retard 5 degrees? I don't own a timing light and I am just going by everything said in this link ( excellent link info by the way )
Thankyou

viewtopic.php?f=7&t=3700&p=27686&hilit= ... ing#p27686

[Neu]

Advancing will get you better power, I think factory is something like 5degrees. I honestly can't remember though. Mine is advanced 12 degrees if I remember correctly. I have very mild pinging on regular fuel. (And oddly enough, even with Supreme from Chevron i get bad, bad pinging). I only use Shell V-power and I get no pinging. With regular Shell fuel I get very mild pinging that I hardly ever notice. I use V-power though. I also manage 32mpg most of the time.

Go ask a mechanic and pay him 10 bucks to use his timing light, IT'S A HUGE HELP.

[scouttster]

Neu, thanks for the reply.. btw, whats pinging? Give me your best description?
Thankyou