Well I'm not so good myself... :-D
I'd check the ignition points were opening and closing...
Take the distributor cap off and check that the 'points' are opening and closing... by turning the motor over (minding your fingers from the scythe blades that pass for fan blades).
If they are closed or opening very little, re-set them and try again.
(can't remember the opening gap sorry!)
Check the rotor arm & cap for cracks, burns burned terminals etc.
Check the sprung contact from the coil lead into the cap is okay
The coughing and banging (backfires?) could point to timing...
Mines still on 6 volt... I can't be bothered to change it to be honest!
Have you got the dodge field manual... that has a troubleshooting bit in it somewhere... I seem to remember :dunno: