Doug,
If the USGA and R&A adopted the 1980 ball, soon, regional, state and local associations would adopt it and then local clubs.
It would take time, that's why I suggested five years.
Look at the long putter, even though it's not due to have the methodology changed until 2016, golfers are already seeking alternate methods. So people, even those that are resistant, seek to conform.
Golf remains a game of integrity, hence, playing by the rules is a measure of one's integrity.
I even reverted to my old, short putter................... and it works............................ most of the time.