engine busting up

I'm thinking the centrifical has way more than you think. Have you set the total to 32* yet? A typical stock dist has like 28* or more centrifical, and the MP dist can be limited, but generally come with around 28* out of the box. You have to adjust the allen set screws to limit it more. You need to lower centrifical to 20-18*, and then you can run larger amounts of initial for better response. As long as the starting circuit is good enough to turn it over. You have to experiment to find your best. Either a timing tape, or an adjustable light must be used. Engines ping for a bunch of reasons, and the problem is, once it starts, it can be difficult to get them to stop. A really fast burning fuel (pump gas), high heat in the chambers(pump gas/cooling system issues), carbon/oil/deposits in the chambers or on the piston tops, too much ignition advance, too lean a mixture, or too much static compression can all cause either pre-ignition (Pinging) or detonation.