Sean - are you using a Ford style solenoid as well as the big solenoid on the starter? If so, that takes a "special" wiring arrangement. If that is your setup, then I'll draw up a diagram - I need one for my records as well.

As far as a one wire alternator, that needs to be wired directly back to the positive terminal of the battery (or at least a post that is connected directly to that terminal). The always hot starter terminal will work and is the way I'm doing it as it is a fairly short run of #8 to a heavier wire run ( #0) to the battery.

The HEI - no idea as I'm running a full MSD ignition