Well I did take some of your earlier advise and bought another ECU for the glovebox and this one is chrome, so I guess I could give it a try. I did have my helper try to start it while I drug the zigzag across the intake and that hasn't changed - it still tries to start.

I am beginning to second guess everything. Is it some of the old wiring, maybe something to do with the tilt steering, or the ignition switch, perhaps a new key and from there it's time to check the tire pressure. Oh well, all part of the fun of supporting an elderly car.