Brian,
    Timing is one of the few things I didn't have to mess with.  Once all the other problems were taken care of and the CAS was spaced correctly, the engine started and ran fine.  What a day!  I am using the EC-2 default setting for the renesis as programed by Tracy and have not even paid much attention to it or even checked it.  Good luck on your next flight.  I assume you are using the EM-2 and EC-2.  What prop are you using?  You make a good point on checking for CO.  I just have one of those stick on cards and should borrow a real meter as I am running SS flex tube also.
Don
RV-8 renesis 76/88 cato