I rebuilt a 22re motor in a 1989, the problem is when the timing is set to 5 btdc (with jumper in te1 and e1) the truck runs like crap, no power, and bogs when reved up. If I set the timing to 12 btdc it runs a little better but still not that great. The timing chain, timing marks and distributor have been checked and rechecked (with timing marks at 0, through the spark plug hole, #1 is at tdc, with valve cover off, cam is in compression stroke position with timing marks pointing straight up and yes the distributor rotor is pointing at #1) the timing alignment does not seem to be the problem. A friend suggested I throw away the timing light and time it by ‘feel’ and when it seems to be running better put the timing light back on it and see where I’m at. I did this and the truck runs great!! Lots of power, runs and idles smooth, the only problem is the timing light says I’m at (about) 25 btdc. There appears to be no pinging, no detonation (at idle and under load) and the motor is easy to start. My questions are:
1: is there something else influencing my timing. I’ve heard of knock sensors but I do not recall one during the rebuild nor can I find one. (does a 22re have one)?
2: has anybody run 25 btdc and is my motor at risk

(p.s. yes we tried three different lights, all read the same)

Yes, the 22RE has a knock sensor below the center of the intake manifold screwed into the block.

If your gas mileage at your optimum timing is acceptable, I would leave well enough alone and run it as is. I don't know if it is worth the trouble to determine the cause of the strange timing. Perhaps the knock sensor is not connected and that is causing the effect like what you're seeing.

It's also possible that your procedure for timing is incorrect and you need to disable some advance somewhere (vacuum advance?)...

Did you install a new timing chain? If you used the old one, perhaps it has stretched and this has changed the valve timing and the required ignition timing. If the valve timing is retarded, you may be able to run with more spark advance than with a new chain.

Sorry, I'm not that familiar with that engine.

Thanks for the quick reply
There is no vac advance on this truck and timing chain and gears are new. I will take another look for the knock sensor. When I find it, is there any way of testing it to see if it's ok ??

Typically, the knock sensor has a single terminal for connection. There should be no continuity between the terminal and the body (infinite resistance). They are replaced if there is any continuity.

If you can't solve the problem with weird ignition timing, I wouldn't waste too much time on it. The only reason for not having more advanced ignition timing is preventing pinging. If you are not pinging, then life is good. :) I would just keep an ear to the engine when you are accelerating near idle. If you don't ping then, I think this is a good sign.

Could it be that the engine is not the original engine and has a different tune configuration than the standard? Have you matched the VIN on the engine with the chassis?