I hooked up the + side to battery (lead from the ballast) and the - wire went to the distributor.
I don't think the coil would work at all if it was connected backwards.

This problem with the rough idle/smoke has to be something heat related.
I'm just not sure where to check next......................

I got a pm from a member that suggested that the heat riser might be sticking. Sure enough it was almost stuck.
Sprayed it with carb cleaner and now it moves freely.
Car is now running great (knock on wood)!
Thanks to everyone for your help.
Lee