OK the coil for an ignition system builds a magnetic field. The points in the distributer close and open as the rotor turns to energize the coil then when the rotor meets up with the lead in the distributer cap the charge that has built up in the coil since the point closed releases. You have to set the dwell just right. Dwell is measured in duration it is closed.. Too much dwell and the field builds then begins to collapse causing a weaker spark. To little dwell and the field doesn't fully build causing a weak spark. You have to have it in the sweet spot for it to run best.
Many people tend to adjust the timing on their engine when they should be fixing the dwell (people with points cars which are old). Once the timing is set it should be left alone. The dwell is the tune up adjustment that with time needs readjusted.
The crane kit I got eliminates the dwell issue by handling this timing electronically which means less maint, more reliable operation, and better spark. All a good thing in a car as slow as this Audi pimp mobile is.
