[RichardJ]

When setting the point gap, depending on your vision, it is important to carefully observe that the points DO NOT move when you insert or remove the feeler gauge and that there is only the slightest drag. If the points move, you do not have .019" gap. An .018" feeler should drop through without resistance. Separate the feelers from the pack for best results.
I see more and more people having trouble getting the correct dwell reading after setting gap, because they forget the spring on the point arm has only about 12 oz. of tension.

You can always rig up a temporary "T" fitting on the manifold port for the PCV hose.
I would think you should be able to set the timing at 6 or 8 degrees without any pinging. I think when I still had the Rochester B, I just used the tach and adjusted for lean-roll and probably added 1/8 - 1/4 turn for good measure. I agree using a vacuum gauge with the tach is better.