Old paper matches worked on the points, but you needed the feeler gauges for the valves.
Hydraulic lifters sure made setting valve lash a lot easier. Push down hard on the individual rockers as warm engine is running. If you feel your fillings coming loose, readjust the lash till you don't. Ah, the good old days. Now it requires a license to practice surgery just to get down to a valve cover.
Classic movie!
