I hadn't considered the ease of starting issue, but that makes sense. And I think you are right about the shade tree mechanic approach--especially since a lot of people opt for 12 volt starters anyway.
I'll admit that I haven't disassembled my distributor yet, but I wasn't aware that the original distributors had mechanical (centrifugal) advance systems built in to it. I guess I'll find out when I take mine apart!
Thanks again for your help.
