This afternoon, we'll be jerking a modded hei distributor (not dui-brand) from a 345 because of a very similar "timing" issue. That is in preparation for diagnosing a potential "poor valve train lubrication" situation as described in this thread:
http://www.forums.IHPartsAmerica.com/carb-tech/1016-waynes-Holley-470-truck-avenger.html
We're gonna install a pertronix-converted distributor in this motor so that we can make it perform as it should. Once all the possible problems are worked out, then we'll home in on a correct install of the hei distributor which will most likely involve a water neck swap as previously described. I know that currently the hei distributor is not installed in the correct position, therefore there is no way that base ignition timing can be set where it needs to be.
All this May not be completed in today's session...but I will have some info on this hei stuff to post by tomorrow morning along with pics.
Based on the amount of email I get on this subject backchannel, yawl are not the only folks having problems with this ignition conversion! But there are many "homebrew" hei conversions out there also so let's not make generalization regarding the "dui" version!
The hei distributor (or any distributor) can be installed in many actual positions, ya just have to verify that the plug wire installation sequence is correct for the firing order and direction of rotation! The problem with the large cap hei system is finding the right position that allows component clearance and adequate range of rotation for setting base timing!
A stock compression sv motor is not anywhere close to "difficult" to crank, a motor in average condition with an average starter motor, will draw only 85>135 amps during the crank cycle if it starts fairly quickly. Higher current requirement indicates an electrical issue in the starter system that needs to be diagnosed!
The legendary "hot start" issue regarding some IH engines pertains primarily only to the Scout II/sv engine combo due to the run of the stock exhaust system. That said, the "remote" starter relay addition is always an inexpensive upgrade to the electrical system on any IH platform, if for no other reason than ease of connecting a remote starter switch when working under the hood!