Initial timing question

[rrc0]

I thought initial timing meant the timing at idle. Is that correct?
However, the manual for the 3.0 L calls for
Initial -2°
600 RPM 8°
Please explain for the newbe

Volvo Penta 3.0 GSM-A

 

[rrc0]

Do base timing, initial timing and timing at idle all mean the same thing?

 

[saf]

Initial timing (or base timing) is the timing that you set with timing advance disabled (this is usually accomplished by connecting the "shunt" to your distributor). Once the advance is enabled back the timing jumps (in your case from -2 to +8). It should continue to advance with rpm increasing reaching "total" timing (usually around 2500 rpm).