this is a new one putting a resistor between the coil and distributor are you using a 12 volt coil internal or external resistor i have used a resistor on a 6 volt coil when using 12 volts but on the power side not dis. side . hope this helps

pushrod,I'm using a 12v coil and an external resistor, according to him I have a 6v distributor,he told me guys would put them in even if they had a 12v coil and 12v distributor,the points won't burn up as quickly.He has ran a garage for many years,he's worked on the old rides sence they were new,I'd say he's about 75 yrs.old now so I took his advice.I'm new to this stuff so maybe someone else on the site knows of this????

If you are running 12 volts you must have a resistor. There is no difference between a 6 volt and 12 volt distributor. The only part that is different on a 12 V car is the coil. Even the points and condenser are the same. On a 12 volt car such as a 1955-57 the ignition recieves 12 volts while the ignition switch is in the start position. When the switch is in the run position the current passes through a resistor and is reduced to about 7 volts. If it would not be reduced the points will burn up fast. I would guess that your system is wired so the resistor is cutting the current down to 7 volts at all times. This would be no problem if the engine starts OK. I would guess that it would be best to run a 6 volt coil if this is true. Actually a 6 V coil will work in a 12 V system and a 12 V coil will work in a 6 V system.......but the proper one is best. seeing that there is 7 volts being delivered to the coil at all times the 6 V coil could be used.

Your right Chevy Nut,he did tell me all distributors were the same.The engine does start just fine,so far anyway.

Finally got a new exaust system put on.The Car has been running good.Now that my exaust runs all the way out the back i've noticed I will see smoke when I'm entering a city or reduced speed area.I'll be off the gas and when my rpms drop fairly low I'll see smoke.As long as I traveling down the highway,not getting the rpms low or on the gas no smoke. Any ideas whats causing this and what should I do about it.Will it hurt my engine to drive it.I have found I have a leaking oil pan and a small leak around my valve cover also.Looks like I'm going through near a quart every 3 to 4 hundred miles.

Sounds like oil is being sucked through the valve guides on deceleration.

About 90 percent of the 1954 engines smoke like this, especially if they have the original rings. Most used some oil when new. Driving the car will not harm the engine as long as the oil level is maintained.
Could try 10W-40 or 15W-40 for your next oil change. Don't go to straight #40.

Again thanks for the info and replies