That is a question like...how come our grandparents didn't have illnesses and diseases like we do today. I guess because times change. Just like when I was a kid, my dad ran ethyl or leaded gas and today we have unleaded, ethanol or premium. I think today everything is so sensored with electronics, they found a way to run rollers without cam buttons. As far as back in the day...I couldn't tell you that because this my first roller. But I can tell this, there's a lot more to it than I thought. I hope it's worth it in the end. Maybe some of these guys with more experience could tell you more about the old roller days. Perhaps..famous Bob, BigBlockMopar, Qkcuda, Sgtbarracuda...I'm sure there are many members that could help answer this question.