Ford Repair: Mustang timing, waterless coolant, aluminum radiator

Question
Hello,
I've got a 65 Mustang with an 85 hipo 302 in it.  I'm having overheating
problems.  It's a new engine, PWR aluminum radiator, new water pump and
I'm using Evans waterless coolant.  I was the first to fill the engine.  I have not
set the timing because I can't find the spec.  I just adjusted it at idle for the
smoothest operation (adjusted it by ear).  I occasionally get a very small
backfire (rare).  And I know incorrect timing can make an engine run hot.  I've
gotten the temp gauge up past half way twice and then saw it drop back
down (point being I think I've opened the thermostat and cleared out the air
in the manifold - added coolant to the radiator after the first time).  What are
the timing specs for an '85 hipo 302 and any other comments are welcome.
Thanks,
Kenny

Answer
if the timing is high enough to overheat then it should be dragging when starting hot like a weak battery or starter-6-10 degrees should be close enough i don't have the exact specs here. barely above 1/2 is ok and should be normal around 1/8 of inch either side of 1/2 mark. honestly i don't know much about evans coolant. if the backfire when you let of accel is so dashpot may be needed on carb to slow down idle return-also do you have any play in dist shaft. good luck.