Vortec motor with a carburetor
 

I'm helping a buddy with installing a Vortec motor that he got from a friend of his. It appears to be the GM performance type of crate motor and looks to be fairly new. I'm trying to figure out if I can run this thing without electronics. It has an intake manifold that accepts a spread bore carb. I know that this intake manifold is not generic: it is proprietary to the Vortec heads an therefore this engine.
The timing cover has a simple notch for TDC, with the balancer having the coinciding mark. But there's no timing tab. I know that these engines run with the timing way advanced. How the heck do I get a reading? I'm not keen on switching the plastic timing cover.

I would suggest measuring the circumference of the harmonic balancer, and then mathematically calculating degrees per inch, etc. to give you some convenient marks. Mark on the balancer with a Sharpie, etc. CW from the TDC mark on the balancer. Adjust timing based on where the degree marks on the balancer line up with the TDC notch.

There has to be a timing tape available commercially for this application.

Use a dial back timing light.

Not sure what you mean by running "without electronics". These engines have no provision for a distributor, but a simple ignition box plugs into the stock crank sensor wheel and will fire the coil packs.

http://www.karlperformanceparts.com/...iABEgKM_vD_BwE

There are several of these type boxes available. The curve is set by a laptop in some cases - very easy, no timing light needed.

SDS also offers a box that allows direct access to all timing values- and you can even adjust as you drive.

http://sdsefi.com/cpiauto.htm

I'm using this box in one of my airplanes and its great.