380 Timing

[ken juul]

116.92 usa spec engine.
I've finally got the car back together after eatin some valves/pistons when the timing guide broke. It is running, but not real smooth. All the timing marks (damper, both cams, distributer) line up. Timing was set to TDC with the vacuum off with the car at idle. It runs very rough, like the timing is retarded, until the advances kick in at about 1500, then runs great up to 3000.

How do I set the TDC sensor? I have read the procedure in the CD, don't have all the special tools they suggest. Is there layman's way of setting it correctly?

Reading the timing chart on the CD, if I am reading it correctly it says the timing should be at TDC at idle? Is this correct?

Thanks, want to get this car on the road and sold before sailing season starts again. Taking way too much of my spare time.