KTB, I've got the same thing happening up here in Fort Worth to a 50 Special Deluxe. Long time Iowa car, parked in my in-laws barn since the mid 80s. Last registered in 74. Was bought new by wife's great grandmother. We got the thing "running" on Dr. Pepper bottled gas and no cooling system, lol. I can only hope the distribution tube comes out on this one as easy as yours did. Carb rebuild and electric pump headed its way soon (till I can get time to rebuild the orig).