1971 MG Midget Distributor Replacement

My car was running a little rough, so I decided to give an inexpensive distributor that I found on Amazon a try. There were no reviews, but for around $130 it seemed like it was worth a try.
Model Number: yise-K1174
Unfortunately, the car would not run with the new unit installed. I played around with it for way too long before packing it in and reinstalling the old original part. I have driven the car with the original worn unit for several months. While it hasn't run perfectly, it has still been fun to drive.
I did try to contact the vendor in China, but they were politely unhelpful. Given that I had to buy more parts to make this item work, I really can't recommend it.
Since the new distributor looked like it was decent quality, I decided to purchase a new set of points and a condenser from a known vendor.
Now many months later, I have gotten around to trying it again.

[@MH-wg6bz]

I ordered a new 25D4 from Team Triumph last year and although it had Lucas markings, there were indications that it was a not a real Lucas distributor. It was only $70. The vacuum advance had failed on my original distributor but otherwise it was good. I found upon installation of the new one that I couldn't get the dwell to set properly. I looked closely at the cam and I noticed a unusual ridge on all the cam lobes. I moved the vacuum advance to my old distributor and reinstalled. Dwell now was correct. Lesson learned.

[@janzienkiewicz5295]

Hi there firstly thanks so much for doing your videos that are really helpful. My midget has an original points system and I was going to change to electronic ignition. Can I ask your thoughts on points and why you haven’t changed. 🙏 not sure if to change or not. Thank you for your time

[@midgetmakeover]

Hi,
I have stuck with points so far for two reasons. First is that they are easy to work on, and to fix if there is a problem. Second is that they are less expensive. I may switch to electronic someday just to see if there is any difference but since this car doesn’t drive more than 500 miles per year I don’t mind cleaning and adjusting things once a season. It’s fun to work on. Have fun with your midget.

[@justmilo8694]

i see you have a emissions pump delete what size screw/plug are you using for the block holes?

[@midgetmakeover]

I used 7/16”-20 x 1/2” long, cup point socket set screws. Cheapest to buy way more than you need from a fastener supplier rather than buying 4 on eBay.