I carry a backup distributor (adjusted/tuned/tested) in all my old trucks (especially on trips), Pertronix or not.

I have found/experienced condensers as being less reliable than the Pertronix units.

Tim
1954Advance-Design.com
1954 3106 Carryall Suburban
1954 3104 5-window pickup w/Hydra-Matic
The 216 and early 235 engines are not "splash oilers" -- this is a splash oiler.