It would be very interesting to know what the compression is now ,after adjusting the valves.

That was me that suggested it might be a chain slip.
This was common on Chrysler's and Chevy small blocks.
The complaint was -" it's been running great , it just would start this morning "

The chain would stretch just enough to ride high on the gear. Compression would still be in range,but cam timing is to re-tarded.

You do have some internal wear to deal with , I think it should run.

Has anyone suggested trying a 12 volt jump ?

This is a strange one !
My six will start within 2 revolutions even after setting for a week.

Your first post stated that it wouldn't fire on starting fluid. So that indicates either no spark or no compression .

Then fuel leaking all over the manifold but the plugs are dry ?
Is the choke set correctly ? Maybe a tea spoon of your favorite engine oil in each cylinder to raise the compression a little.

It's been my experience that if the engine is within 5 degree's of being tdc it should start, or come very close to starting.

It's all - suck , squeeze , bang , blow ....

Would still be very helpful to know the compression in the cylinders ..

Eric,
What a great idea !
Let me add my 38s numbers.
245 C.I. 6 cylinder.

Block casting # 320500
cast 5-26-38
Sn # A29467B

Thanks,
RT

I agree .20 is to wide - My six likes .16
You getting a spark with the ignition on with a screwdriver ? That indicates that you might have dirty contacts ?if you are touching the contacts with the screwdiver to the baseplate of the distributor.Slide a little bit of clean paper between them , or a give em a shot of electrical contact cleaner .make sure to let it dry before re-testing them.

Pretty simple to align.
Try all the simple stuff first.If you didnt even get a pop-I would make sure you are gettin spark at the plugs.
Can you check the compression ? You may want to check the valve adjustment.

Sounds like the engine has been running fine ?
If it doesn't turn out to be something simple , i wounder if it may have a worn timing chain ?

Solid state is the only way to go.
Make sure you change the buffer capacitor when you install the new vibrator.(This would be a perfect time to recap it if it hasn't been done already)

Check out www.nostagliaair.org They may have a Ryder print of your radio.

Jim Hutton drove a Packard coupe in the mid 70's t.v. show
"Ellery Queen "

(I think that's when I decided I wanted one )

Take a look at Jegs, you can buy a 300 amp disconnect switch with remote linkage for about $90.00.

Cheap insurance....

RT