Setting a Dynatek 2000 TC88

[Hifibiker]

I recently installed a Dynatek 2000 TC88 ignition module in my 2000 flstc (carbureted). It has a Stage one air cleaner, V&H Straightshots and newly installed Feuling 525 cams.  As the instructions state for the Dynateck ignition I started at setting A36.  My mileage dropped from 38mpg to 32mpg.  I ran through all the setting up to A42 and really noticed little difference.  At all settings I hear what I believe to be faint knocking under load.  Aside from listening for pinging is there a more scientific way to get the ignition timing correct?  Also, if anyone out there has a similar set up as mine let me know what works.  Thanks

[kd]

I suspect the "newly installed cams" are the real reason for the mileage change.  Your best bet is to chose a setting that is one step away from the detonation rattle that you get in the load ranges you ride in.

Added later:

If you are hearing a detonation knock in all settings you may be lugging the engine.  Some cams will need more rpm to be friendly.  What rpm does it occur at?

[Hifibiker]

Seems to occur around 3K and up.  I have been close to lugging the engine mainly to see how it reacts under load.  The weird thing is that today I set the ignition to A42 (highest setting in A curve) and the bike ran good and got 37 mph.  I'm not concerned at all about how much mpg I get.  I am just using it as an indicator of how the bike is performing. 

[HogMike]

Stock carb?
Any baffles in the pipes?

I have that ignition in one of my bikes, I'll have to take a look at the settings when I get back to town.

 

[Hifibiker]

Yes, stock carb and baffles in the pipes.

[Mi Infidel]

The Dynatek was one of the first things I installed on my stock TC88 last year. I set it to A36 and I haven't really had to change it. I added a Thunderheader and set it to A34 for a while but then I moved it back to A36. I added an S&S 510 cam and left it then I added a 98" kit and set it down to A34 but now it's back on A36. I too have a carb. I'm surprised that yours can take the advance of A42 but you hear knocking or pinging at the lower settings along with bad mpg. How do you like the Fueling cams? I was looking at them but the specs seem a bit different than most other cams. Maybe they like more ignition advance. The only way to actually know what's happening is read your plugs or get a wideband AFR meter and put an O2 sensor in the pipes.

[Hifibiker]

So far I like the 525's.  They have noticeably more torque than stock.  The main reason I got them is that a factory cam bearing failed so the cam chest was rebuilt with a Feuling kit that converted the cam chain tensioners to hydraulic.  The shop had a set of 525's in stock and offered me a good deal on them as the cam chest was already being rebuilt.  I only have about 400 miles on them so far.