Large,
If you are going to set the timing to spec (start there and then adjust again if it doesn't sound right) then first check the dwell of the points on the 051. It's not complicated, but you will need a dwell meter. Many automotive amp meters have a dwell function, and they also tend to have an RPM function also. If you buy one with both functions you'll be able to do the job properly using a strobe gun. It's not a hard process at all, and very satisfying. There is a lot here on the site about such adjustments, and the Haynes manual has a pretty good section. The kit isn't expensive at all.
Of course, before doing the points, you might like to take a look at the linkage tour first to ensure that everything is set up properly if you haven't already done so, then a gross error check on the points gap (using a feeler gague), then check dwell, then do timing last. You can also check things like resistance in your spark plug leads and other fun things with the amp meter! (I found a problematic lead that way; wish I'd started with the leads as it would have saved me a lot of time).
If you don't have the haynes manual, or the BBB (both worth getting) let us know and I'll post the specs for dwell, etc.
JH