1987 Dodge Dakota ignition timing procedure

had no start, replace pick up coil, started. then no advance in timing, replace computer on right fender well. have advance now but would like to check timing, before the comp. engine was backfiring through carb on acceleration. now trk runs but after warm up some the engine stalls, wont start, seems spark is yellow and weak at plugs when checking for spark. ive also adjusted the air/fuel base carb adj out to approx 2 turns, runs smoother but still have stalling. also replaced 9volt battery for memory module under dash/brake emerg pedal area.it was dead.
there must be away totake advance out of the picture to check base timing. i cant find that info anywhere.thanks, dave