Timing setting question

[OldSkewl 79]

Hi guys. Im fairly new to engine building. I have 1 previous build on a 300 straight six with some performance upgrades. It was 5 years ago and pulls like a tank still. 6500lb class at fairs. Now Im rebuilding a 302 that is .040 over, stock 2bbl, tranny etc. My questions is this. I have purchased an after market cam 290/300 adv. duration .472/496 lift 112 degree lobe to be specific - - do I need to do anything special to the timing? what should I set it at for normal driving. My 300 I just set it to what Im doing with it at the time. be it pulling the sled, hauling rock or ?? or playing in mud.. It could always be better but the truck has a life of beating around nothing like my 302 . The 302 is to be driving daily up and down highways. Or should I start out at about 8-10 degrees like stock and just adjust as needed? any help would be appreciated. Thanks C

[gfw1985]

You've got it right, 8-10 to get it started. You already know more advance as long as it isn't pinging for performance, less for economy. With aftermarket cam I'd tune it with a vacuum gauge and just use the timing light for a referance.

[OldSkewl 79]

Ok.. thanks I will try to get my hands on a vacuum gauge. Ok now my question is what am I to look for with the vacuum gauge? I have never used one.
Thanks

[gfw1985]

Time for max manifold vacuum, then back off 1-2 hg.