[C. Clark]

Hello,
Recently I added a set of Weber 40's and a .050 distributor. Can anyone explain the timing of the .050? I've researched this site and have come up with various setting. Will it damage the engine to have the wrong timing setting? or will it just run poorly. A VW friend says it will burn the engine if the timing is over adavanced. Currently when the distributor is retarded I get popping and cracking, as it advances it goes away but I believe I must go beyond the suggested 5 degrees to eliminate the problem totally. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you,
Chas.