V-8 flathead problems

[BCA]

Thanks for the input. I've eliminated fuel supply issues up to the carb (changed pumps, checked pumping pressure, added an inline electric pump). The coil is a fairly modern normal looking ignition coil (says 6V on it which may explain why the resistor has been by-passed - would too much voltage be a problem?). The wiring has been re-done and not exactly as original but ignition switch works fine and good power to coil.
I saw on a Ford forum that one problem may be with insufficient point gap: I just can't get up into the diver helmet distributor to check the gap etc. I can just barely see the one set of points with a mirror.
If I take off the distributor will I screw up the timing when putting it back on? I haven't been able to find any good information and photos on fooling with these distributors.
Oddly, right after making the post I went around the block with modest power, babying with the choke seemed to help a little bit. No idea if I tinkered with something that helped a bit.
... Brian