I'm getting my headers, exhaust, new 4053 carb, new starter, new wires,etc installed by our local hot rod shop and I was also planning to have them restore the distributor. They recommended installed electrical ignition kit within the housing to increase performance and reliability. They are also willing to do points,etc, but recommend the electronic conversion. They say it will not damange the originality of the 111467 distributor and it can be changed back to points later if i desire.

They will be running the car on the dyno, adjusting valves, and jetting carb for maximum performance of my original 302MO motor. Do I let them take care of it? Or.. do I send it to Jerry MacNeish to have him restore it? I know I can take it out and ship it back, but... I'll have no idea on how to reinstall/time it to get it to the hod rod shop 30 miles away if I go that route.

Any input greatly appreciated.

How much of a benefit is the eletric conversion from the points type?

If the shop is doing all the other work, I would have them do the dist also. Unless you are planning to run the engine way upstairs RPM wise, the points will work fine. My 302 with the factory point system sings pretty good. The engine builder that built my 427 says the electronic conversion is good for about 8 HP on the dyno. Points type are pretty reliable.

I have the M & H complete wiring harness in my car and was so impressed with the harness that I also bought their distributor conversion. Click on their home page and then the link on the left http://www.wiringharness.com/
It is easy to install and uses only one wire exiting the distributor, just like the original design. My engine started on the first try and revved and idled well.
The car is currently in the paint shop and is not yet on the road, but I have confidence in the engine and distributor.

Just my opinion. but it seems your car is a very nice original Z. my personal feeling is keep it original and use points. There is NOTHING wrong with points. They were used by manufacturers on engines for over 50 years. They do require increased maintenance. Replacement every 10,000 miles or so. How long will it take for you to drive 10,000 miles? Remember just my opinion, nothing wrong with either option.

TTFN
Mat