The resistor is there to save your points from unnecessary arcing and subsequent wear. I think I would bypass the resistor completely until the engine is running, and only then worry about it. The short amount of time (5-10 minutes) you run without it won't hurt the points.
I have seen a large number of brand new ignition components fail, so keep every part suspect.
As far as why it is struggling: I always start by working through some method to get cylinder 1 near TDC, and checking the position of the distributer rotor with the number one plug wire. If these two reasonably match up, you know your timing will be close. Check to ensure that you still have spark. As already stated, look for vacuum leaks and spray something flammable around mating surfaces to find them. If you have fuel, air, and spark, then don't overlook a compression check.
Good luck,
Doug
