Originally Posted by wodniw5
Should I have 12 volts to the (-) side of the distributor when ignition is turned on?
Paul
No, if you have only one lead going into the coil - not unless you have a coil with an internal ballast resistor.

If you have two wires going into the coil, it might be OK to have 12v at the coil, when cranking/engaging the starter.