With Copperhead, the longer your races are (total time running) and how hard you drive on the throttle can effect the heat. Yes turning timing or punch down a little (or both down a little) can effect how heat builds up. There is a big difference between a driver who uses the throttle "correctly", by using the trigger to increase throttle as you accelerate, as opposed to someone who just mashes full throttle and actual speed as to catch up. Its all part of that big jig saw puzzle we put together with our set ups.