Stupid Distributor Questions

There is a difference between distributor timing and phasing. Timing is where your spark occurs relative to crankshaft position. We adjust this by turning the distributor in the block until the desired static or baseline advance is reached. Phasing is where the spark occurs relative to the contacts in the cap. I've never had a problem with a factory Mopar distributor, but anything is possible.

Generally an out of phase condition is due to the distributor having been assembled incorrectly, stuck advance weights, or something else being a tooth or two off and "fudged back in". If you have everything lined up correctly, this probably isn't the problem, but anything is possible. To verify phasing you end up having to sacrifice a distributor cap (cut a hole in the top) and use the timing light to look at where the rotor actually is relative to the cap with the engine running.

With the crank at TDC #1, the slot in the distributor drive shaft should point directly at the left-front intake manifold bolt (#9 in the torque sequence).

Also, since you are running points, make sure you set the gap with a dwell meter. The factory setting of .020 should get you close assuming no wear in the dist, but dwell is much more accurate.