timing settings on 2.4
 

Just checked timing on my 2.4 mfi and I'm at 3 ATDC at 900rpm, 30 BTDC at 6000rpm w/vacuum line connected, 38 BTDC at 6000rpm w/vacuum line off and plugged. Are these values close enough, or am I getting too much advance? BTW, car seems to run great like it is.

You are in the ballpark.

Stock specs would be 4-6 degrees ATDC @ 900 rpm and 31-38 degrees BTDC @ 6,000 rpm (with vacuum line disconnected). Timing should never exceed 38 degree BTDC with vacuum line disconnected.

Should I be worried that my advance is already at the upper limit (38 BTDC) when freshly tuned? Does advance change as points, plugs, etc. wear?

Does your car still have points? Is the dwell set correctly?

Yes & yes

Car doesn't seem to run as well today and idle is down to about 800. Could this be a result of new points "breaking themselves in"? Any thoughts about my timing being at 38BTDC?

If the engine is otherwise sound and you use a good fuel quality 38 degree BTDC is no problem. Of course you can reduce some degrees if you feel uncomfortable and don't need max power. New points certainly can settle and you should keep an eye on dwell angle and timing.

I would always recommend a Pertronix Ignitor (or similar system). Avoids the hassle to change and adjust the points and (with the prize of points these days) pays off quite fast. However - being a mechanical engineer- I always have an set of points with me, in case some electronic component decides to go bust (many posts on this issue on this forum).

I agree, get a "pointsless" system such as the Crane Fireball 700 that I have in my car and you'll never have to worry about points wear or setting the points ever again. I haven't touched mine in the 3 or 4 years that I've had my car.