Try this- - - -with the engine not running (shouldn't be a problem, right?) turn the ignition switch to the "on" position and tap the starter until you see the points close. Measure the voltage at the coil (+) terminal to a good ground like the engine block, etc. It should be very close to the voltage measured directly at the battery posts. Then measure voltage from the (-) terminal or the terminal at the side of the distributor to ground. It should be very near zero. If you get a voltage reading at the distributor with the points closed, CLEAN THE POINTS! Burned or high resistance points were the cause of at least half the "cranks but won't start" complaints I've fixed in the past 50-something years.
Jerry
