What should be disconnect, plugged for the base timing? Rotate distributor for __ degrees (what should it be)? The ecm controls much of the normal timing, but I suspect that the base is far off and ecm can't adjust further.
Any adjustment by the camshaft position sensor?

OnTheRoad

 

I'm pretty sure that...everything has to be plugged in....?

Typically, when one adjusts ignition timing, they mark where the "stock" timing was, so that reverting is just a matter of aligning the 2 marks.
Have a look to see if it has been adjusted. If it is, disregard it, just adjust it to whatever you prefer, low end, or high end power.
Most people turn it slightly higher (about 15 or so degrees) on naturally aspirated setups, seing as our engines have more than enough low end torque.