yeah, you should be able to adjust your timing with the engine running. I used to do it all of the time depending on where I would buy gas and what grade I would get... probably overkill, but I like to tinker. lol.

if you are getting shocked, then the insulation on your wires is going bad.
Either replace them, or wrap them all up in electrical tape. Not a permanent fix, but it will buy you some time.