SUN Distributor Machine

[Ray C.]

I just purchased a 1950's SUN Distributor Machine that I plan on restoring. Model Number: MD-1. I believe this machine is from the mid 1950's. Has anyone used this model machine and can it be used on a 12-V 1960's distributor. On top of the tester is a roller file system that list information for cars up to 1956.

Thanks for any information!

Ray

[James G.]

Re: SUN Distributor Machine

Snap On Tools bought out Sun in the late 80's. They may have an idea where help can be found.

I would post on the Corvette forum also.

[William C.]

Re: SUN Distributor Machine

Well it CAN be used, but the rpm capability is quite limited on these older machines. There is an old-fashoned electrical system inside also using TUBES and such as well as (usually) a couple of dry cell batteries that may have corroded creating a need to replace the holders. Look on ebay, manuals and the like show up occasionally.

[Philip C.]

Re: SUN Distributor Machine

I just purchased a 1950's SUN Distributor Machine that I plan on restoring. Model Number: MD-1. I believe this machine is from the mid 1950's. Has anyone used this model machine and can it be used on a 12-V 1960's distributor. On top of the tester is a roller file system that list information for cars up to 1956.

Thanks for any information!

Ray

Hi Ray A guy in KY sells and refurbishes them, his #859-441-6119 Phil 8063

[Joe C.]

Re: SUN Distributor Machine

I just purchased a 1950's SUN Distributor Machine that I plan on restoring. Model Number: MD-1. I believe this machine is from the mid 1950's. Has anyone used this model machine and can it be used on a 12-V 1960's distributor. On top of the tester is a roller file system that list information for cars up to 1956.

Thanks for any information!

Ray

Jeff Arnseth, my machinist, has one in his shop. He and I are currently collaborating on a modified L76 engine build. You can contact him at the following:

J.T.L. Automotive
16 W 3rd Street
Keyport, NJ 07735
732-264-2642

[Ray C.]

Re: SUN Distributor Machine

This site and its members are amazing! Thanks to all for your help and information.

Ray

[Gary C.]

Re: SUN Distributor Machine

Ray, have a manual on a Sun 504 & 404 models. If you e-mail me your mailing address I'll send it to you if you like. Gary....

[Mike M.]

Re: SUN Distributor Machine

one of the local speed shops gave me one about 20 years ago.i couldn't get it working, took it to a fellow AACA member in Winchester , Va who repaired and got it working. mine has a 6 volt auto battery that powers it. you can set up any 6 or 12 volt distributor 's curves on this old 6 volt sun. the snap-on dude wasn't helpful in getting manual or parts. good luck with your sun.mike

[Dick W.]

Re: SUN Distributor Machine

The lead in KY is very useful. He is very knowledgeable on Sun equipment.

Under the two covers on the left lower panel are what I believe to be D cell batteries. It has been 20 years since I had one with these batteries. The dwell meter will not operate unless they are good.

[John D.]

Re: SUN Distributor Machine

The lead in KY is very useful. He is very knowledgeable on Sun equipment.

Under the two covers on the left lower panel are what I believe to be D cell batteries. I has been 20 years since I had one with these batteries. The dwell meter will not operate unless they are good.

"I has been twenty years". I see you talk and type the same.

[Mike M.]

Re: SUN Distributor Machine

We have a couple of chapter members who own and use these Sun machines.
One presented a demonstration at a Chapter Seminar a couple of months ago, resulted in a newsletter article and perhaps may appear in the Restorer.
If you are interested in learning more, you can contact Dave Sly or Todd Gifford through this board.
HaND

[Stuart F.]

Re: SUN Distributor Machine

Thanks for the information flow about the SUN distributor machines. I have access to one which I used a few months back to set up my distributor. I know well how to use them, but never learned much about servicing or maintaining them. I would love to have one of my own, and may some day if my son keeps his interest going in older Vettes.

Stu Fox

[Ralph P.]

Re: SUN Distributor Machine

Hey..on a "semi" related subject..... I have an AC Delco Diagnostic Tune Up Center machine from early '70's ( Model ST 200 ) . It needs a new test assembly harness ( part 01-3909 according to the manual ) . I've followed a lot of dead ends searching . I do know the original mfg. was Kal Equipment...later acquired by Actron . They no longer have any parts or service available. I was referred to Karl Winter Co. in Kansas City ... could not get an answer on the number provider. This would be a great machine to use on the whole range of procedures . I do have the old harness ...it's not usable just due to broken wires & worn out connectors. Anyone have a NOS harness gathering dust? HA!

[Terry M.]

Re: SUN Distributor Machine

I just purchased a 1950's SUN Distributor Machine that I plan on restoring. Model Number: MD-1. I believe this machine is from the mid 1950's. Has anyone used this model machine and can it be used on a 12-V 1960's distributor. On top of the tester is a roller file system that list information for cars up to 1956.

Thanks for any information!

Ray

SUN and other brands of automotive test equipment from "back-in-the-day" were once commonly and sometimes inexpensively available in salvage disposal circles as vocational schools and auto shops disposed of them because they are no longer functional (or have limited functionality) on modern autos. Even that secondary source is drying up now. Someone who had a SUN distributor machine restored recommended the KY resource mentioned in an earlier post to me. He was satisfied with the experience.

[Mike M.]

Re: SUN Distributor Machine

These guys have some spare parts and service the macines themselves.
Another member used his Sun Machine to set-up the distributor for my '65.
He said it would be good up to 8,500 RPM, I'll take his word for it.

Ralph, FWIW
You may not have a "Bad Harness", but, just a few "Bad Wires"
I know guys who have gone so far as to have taken the main harness off of their car and re-threaded a replacement new wire or two through the original wrap while not disturbing it and re-placing it back onto the car.
HaND