When all GM V8's used the same points, condenser, rotor cap and distributor cap.
When the auto part stores used paper catalogs and alot of the older parts guys didn't even need them, did it by memory.
Dem guys that always had a used Holley to sell you, later you discovered they came from "Midnight Auto Supply" home of "Five Fingered Discount".
Re-refined motor oil in glass jugs at some service stations, perfect for cars that used alot of oil.
Breaking in chrome rings.
Domed pistons in anything high performance.
Da "Pink" rods.
1/4,1/2,3/4 and "Full" race cams.
When you didn't own a single metric tool.
You could pull an engine in 15 minutes.
Ring jobs without pulling the engine finished in one day.