Is detonation always audible?

I seem to be able to run more than 15deg of timing without any audible pinking. I'm getting more power and no safety boost but is it safe?

On 15 deg the car feels slow

It may not always be audible given the racket an engine makes. If you have a boost controller then you wouldn't normally have safety boost either.

Ok, I think this is to do with the inductive loop.

When I do the timing on the loop, then do it at the plug their is a 10deg difference (the loop is more retarded)

What the hell is that all about? Its got a brand new wiring loom!

No idea how that can happen, unless there is summat funny (and configurable) with your timing light. I have a cheapo one and connect it straight to the plug - no confusion that way.

Don't use the loop, it's renound for being unreliable.

 

Ignition Timing:

If you use the loop, leave the clamp on the timing light open - that gives you the correct reading ;)