In a couple weeks I'm pulling the orig 283 out to start the O/H. this beast still has the orig gen. and points dist.. whats a good starting point for the change over to an alt. and what do you guys recommend for a dist...
any links to wireing diagrams would also help.. thanks.....

Everything depends on what direction you are taking with the restoration. If you are going to leave it stock keep the generator and do a Petronix conversion on the stock distributor. If this will be a cruiser then chuck the 283 for a 350ci with all the goodies. Disc brake conversion, air bags all around, big wheels and fat tires, screaming yellow paint (or super bright red), OEM pattern interior but with custom colors---now that's what I call a cool El Camino.

If you're wanting to swap over to an alternator the easiest way to go is a one-wire. I did one on my 57 3100 1/2 ton, just run 1 wire from the alt to the pos terminal on the batt. Done. If you're willing to get rid of the old gennie I'm interested, PM me. Your distributor decision depends on mechanical aptitude and intended use. At this time, I'm running points in one rig, a Pertronix in another and an MSD 6 series in another. If you can install points, you can install a pertronix unit under the cap without a problem. I found it made starting much easier and improved gas mileage a little. MSD is a much more complicated system, but benefits from better spark. Also costs more. I run one in my Camino, but it basically is a race car.

My 2 cents

Devin