Stubborn starting question...
Thanks a lot guys for sticking with me on this. Building an electric car was easier than finding this problem!!!
Probably because old wiring is uncertain.
I do want to take your advice and convert to a electronic ignition. I'm sold. I just need to determine the right pathway.
My friend said that he'd used a Chrysler kit that had the entire set up and a full unit, plug & drive distributor unit. If affordable, I like the idea.
Someone said that it was foolish to buy a replacement distributor if I planned to convert it, and I understand your reasoning, but the distributor cost $35 and a tow home would have been five times that much!
I have had a second person state that they've had real trouble with getting points that don't burn out easily, so I don't know if that's an issue or urban myth.
I'll be researching the conversion this week and I'll let you know.
Thanks again....