AQ151C timing issue

[mdwells]

Just rebuilt my 4 cyl Volvo Penta AQ151. Starts and runs smooth with timing at 18 btdc (650rpm). Closer I get to 6 deg, worse it runs till it shuts down. Timing light same as reading at the crank pulley gauge..even tried different timing light with same results. Cam is timed with crank, all marks align at #1 TDC. Remember timing my old chevy in the sweet spot by ear and that's where this Volvo is happiest. But I've heard that's not always the best setting. Can't imagine why it doesn't like the lower advance setting, but unless I'm in jepordy of burning a valve or piston, it sure runs nice where it is...
Any opinions out there...?

 

[Scott Danforth]

if your positive everything is lined up with TDC at #1 start looking at carb settings. I wouldnt run it with base timing at 18 degrees

 

[kenny nunez]

2 Xs on the carburetor settings. Those engines are very sensitive to the having the throttle blades exactly even. That is how they act when they are not set right.

 

[mdwells]

Got it....kept increasing the carburetors as I adjusted the timing. Didn't realize there was that much difference in idle speed from 18? to 6?, but it is significant.