So what you are reporting is the ignition system works when the starter isn't using up the available power ? Was the ignition switch held in the start position while the dist' was operated by hand ?
yes the switch was being held in the start position when i turned the distributor and got great fire. put the dizzy back in and tried it with the starter and got no spark. first thing i replaced the ecu and then tried a new coil. when that didnt work i put a new pick up in the new distributor and still nothing. going out of town will be gone prob 5 days so ill have some time to think about it. any more sugestions welcomed im willing to try almost anything at this point. thank you all for your imput it is geratly appreciated.