I suspect the timing is off on my 350 MAG MPI. It is supposed to be at
8*BTDC @ idle (600 rpm). My timing light shows it's off by about 2-4*,
but it keeps jumping around while the engine idles. I also hear what
sounds like slight detonation problems.

The Merc manual says a special procedure must be followed to adjust the
timing. I have read other places on the web that this "special
procedure" is just to pull all the plugs and crank the engine - this
won't let it start. I then set the timing while the plugs are out and
I'm cranking the engine. Has anyone here actually timed one of these
engines? Any advice? Is this the correct procedure?

Also, how the !@#$ do I get in to loosen the 9/16 bolt that clamps the
distributor in place? It's a bear to get to with all the cables and
linkage in the way. The 2000 motor sits in a 1991 (repowered) Mariah
MX-20, a little ways back under the rear deck. It's lots of fun to get
to.

Life used to be so much simpler without all this fancy computerized
ignition :-)

Craig