So this will sound totally incorrect and technically wrong...but it seems my condensor (green wire) is connected to the positive side of my coil and the other wires on the negative side..this shouldn't even work should it? I thought it was supposed to go the other way around? it's been set up this way since I bought it but I'm not sure it's right...

Im trying to set the timing with a timing light and my light constantly stays on..Points aren't sticking or anything...not sure what's wrong? distributor clamp dodgy? doesn't explain the constant light. No matter which connection on the coil I attach the clip too, the light always stays on

It's wrong.

black wire to term 15 (+)
green condensor wire to term 1 (-)

Terminal 1 should only have 1 wire connected to it unless you have a tacho.

If you are using the 12v test lamp method to set the timing, connect it to the same terminal as the points/condensor.

You may also have an radio interference condensor on the + side of the coil. Piss it off.

here's my coil
green condensor lead on the right (the terminal behind it is also positive)

Same situation on the left...both terminals there are negative...Is it the brand of coil that makes the difference here??

Have spotted problem. Its a Lucas "prince of darkness" coil.

It's no big deal, correct the wiring, it'll still work, Google Ignition Coil principles, You will not change the timing light issue, it may be the light, or the lead, try it on another cylinder, or car even.

The coil is probably the wrong type. It could be a ballast resistor type or for positive earth. Get rid of it.

While you're at it, get rid of those carbon spark plug leads and replace them with proper Volkswagen copper leads. Then fix the low tension wire connectors that look dodgy. If you bring to me in SW Sydney I will have a look at the wiring after you change the coil.

Why are there 2 wires on the - side?