How did you get on? It's at idle. If you have the manual, it explains how to do the timing pretty well. I cleaned and then marked the timing scale with a paint pen so I can see what I'm aiming for when setting the timing. I actually sort of like doing this task, but there's quite a lot of preparatory work I do in preparation for the timing, which I do last. My process:
Normally I do this when I service the car. So change the filters, check the plugs, etc. But first and foremost, I would start with the linkage tour setting up the linkage the way that Joe sets out in that excellent post. I did that a while ago. It's an art not a science and it took me 3 goes to get it right. After that, I set the valve clearances. Then I check the points, looking at the gap, then check the dwell angle using the voltmeter setting, whcih has a handy digital readout. I also use this to check the rpm accurately, since when working on my own I can't see the tacho! I lubricate the distributor in accordance with the service schedule (a bit of oil in the lubrication port on the side, a drop of oil on the felt pad, etc). That done, out comes the timing light and there we go. Don't forget to reconnect the vacuum link to the distributor
From memory that's my process, I think. Probably something missing, but it's part of my process for the day or so I spend giving the car a major dig out each year, greasing all 27 million grease nipples, etc.
The only thing I'd add, as Dan says, is that I find that once I've hit the specs I need to just play with the distributor position a little to get it to run perfectly. My car likes to have as much advance as possible, so it takes a little playing around.
Good luck.
