Actually Don the condenser (capacitor) serves two puposes:
1: It charges up with elecrical energy each time the points open and reduces arcing across the contact points as they seperate. Which results in extended point life as you indicated. However:
2. The primary function of the condenser is to collapse the magnetic field within the coils primary windings each time the points open by discharging stored voltage usually around 250 a.c. (yes A.C.) The release of this capacitated voltage causes a rapid collapse of magnetism from the primary windings across the secondary windings as it heads for the laminated iron core in the center of the coil which results in electromagnetic induction in the secondary windings boosting the magnetism and voltage in the seconadry windings to between 10-20 thousand volts.At the same time this process occurs the polarity of the elecrical energy is reversed (in the secondary windings). IE: positive to negative charge. Ultimately producing high voltage 10-20K Volts with a negative charge at each spark plug gap leaping from the center electrode to the side electrode of each plug.If the sole purpose was to extend point life, the engine would start and run without a condenser, but it will not. Doubt It? Try to start a breaker point equipt engine with the condenser removed.
Just FYI
Best Regards
