[Old Hippie]

It sounds like you have a loaded short on the alt/batt circuit. Check out the internal diodes, then start ohming the + wires. As far as the engine, I'm suprised you didn't run the motor first. But then, no worst than most of us starting out. I did the same with a 60 Falcon and a 289 back when I was growin up in S. Jersey. Question. Did you and your dad think about cupping the firewall to make room for the dist?

 

[Old Hippie]

I agree with Gary. I like the little V6's from GM except for the Rodchester carbs (they suck). It's that or the Chrysler 3.3 I plan on using for my 71GT. I need to measure, but the 3.3 looks alittle thinner. But for a inch, I'd go with the GM.