counter clockwise.
Turn it to the opposite direction that the rotor rotates.
To advance the timing on a 396 Chevy, you should turn the distributor counterclockwise. This adjustment will cause the ignition timing to occur earlier in the engine cycle, which can improve performance. Always ensure that you check timing specifications and use a timing light for accurate adjustments.
The vacuum canister can advance 24 degrees beyond initial timing.
Rtr. turning clockwise. Rotate distributor counter clockwise to advance timing, clockwise to retard.
Counter clockwise to advance.......clockwise to retard
Yes, but that would eliminate about half of your advance curve, which you need.
Use a timing light with vacuum advance disconnected set base timing to 6 degrees
cam timing will not change ignition timing i would try 8 or 10 degees advance at idle with the vacuum advance disconnected.
There should be advance marks on the harmonic balancer, and timing marks on both timing chain gears.
4 BEFORE (ADVANCED) TDC A 800 RPM WITH THE VACUME ADVANCE DISCONNECTED AND PLUGGED.
Turn it clockwise to retard it. Counter clockwise to advance it. If this was not your question then asked it again.
You need to find someone that has an advance timing light. With it they can set the total advance at 35 degrees at 2,000 RPM. That will be your best performance setting.