When my motor was out for rebuild I swapped my point distributor for
a rebuilt electronic and a module (Napa aftermarket for a 86 D150
pickup).

With the engine at TDC and point distributor I used to use a test
light on the negative coil to see when the points were open. I could
just turn the distributor until the test turned off and bolt it down.
That would set the timing to fire at that engine position.

Now with the electronic I am unsure how to tell when the equivalent of
the points close event is happening. Can I just turn the distributor to
line up the reluctor and the metallic looking center of the pick up?

Lining up the reluctor will get it close enough to start, then you can use your timing light.

_________________
Ed
64 Valiant 225 / 904 / 42:1 manual steering / 9" drum brakes

I've always removed #1 spark plug-(or used a spare plug)-- connect it to the #1 plug wire --turn on ignition key-- ground the electrode on the plug & turn the dist-- until it sparks-- then clamp it down & fire it up!!