[Lynn]

You do not have to widen the gap. You get to.

Point being that the limits of the point type ignition dictated the smaller gap.
With hotter spark, you can widen the gap which will give you a little more spark.

Either way, it should have no effect on your starting condition. I still have points in my Z for now, and it cold starts in a nano second. I would say less than one revolution of the engine.

I would check to see what the voltage is with the key on, then make sure you have good voltage while cranking.

Also, before starting next time, remove air cleaner and look down the carb. Hold the choke open with your finger and give it some gas. Make sure you are getting a good squirt. Then let go of the choke plate and make sure is "sets" firmly.

Hard starting could be either gas or spark issues.

One more tip. I am guessing that car had either 43 or R43 plugs. It will run even better on R43S plugs. The "S" plugs have a slightly extended tip putting the spark farther out into the cyl. However, and this is IMPORTANT, you should index the plugs to the gap is down just to be sure there is no piston interference. But then, I am one of those screwballs who always indexes the plugs.