
HOME CONTACT US
PRICE	NAME OF PRODUCT
(120 Volts) $4495.00 (220 Volts) $4695.00 FOB OHIO (EX WORKS)	King Model MD-1400 Magneto Distributor Tester
Shown with MSD PRO MAG 44 and Sparkplug Assembly ( NOT included ) Power: 120 volts AC (Available option 220 volts) Shipping Dimensions: 31" X 22 1/2" X 31" Shipping Weight: 145 lbs.	MD-1400 Features The new MD-1400 is designed to test complete magneto and distributor ignition systems. In order to facilitate this the MD-1400 can be used either on the bench or on the vehicle to test the individual components used on automotive engines as well as in many aircraft, marine and industrial engine ignition systems. Among the features found in the MD-1400, which enable these tests to be conducted are: A heavy duty one horsepower D.C. motor with electronic speed control to drive the magneto or distributor up to 7500 rpm - which equals 15,000 rpm engine speed. A reversing switch permits clockwise - counter clockwise rotation. Multiple power supplies accessible on the instrument panel to activate the various components under test. A brilliant strobe xenon flash lighting with protractor for spotting worn cams, bent rotors or intermittent electronic modules. A millimeter ranged 0-250 ma. and an ammeter scaled to indicate 0-25 amps. A digital tachometer to accurately display the speed of the driven magneto or distributor under test. An ohmmeter for measuring pickups and modules. A vacuum pump system which includes the motor pump, gauge and regulator control. An analog cam angle meter to display the cam angle, points resistance, and condenser capacitance and condition. Selector switching for testing electronic ignitions with and without coils as well as standard systems with and without coils. Selector positions are also provided for testing modules, coils, and pick-up coils.
Base Cabinet (Model# AC-530)
(Click for larger image) Available as an option, at an extra cost of $575.00

OPERATOR MANUAL FOR THE D1400 "DISTRIBUTOR TESTER"

INDEX

TEST LEAD FUNCTIONS

INITIAL SETUP INSTRUCTIONS

ELECTRONIC DISTRIBUTORS WITH COIL

ELECTRONIC DISTRIBUTORS WITHOUT COIL

COIL TEST

STANDARD POINTS DISTRIBUTOR NO COIL

STANDARD POINTS DISTRIBUTOR WITH COIL

CONDENSER TEST

OHMMETER OPERATION

HELPFUL EXAMPLE

FORD DOUBLE DIAPHRAGM DIST.

FORD LOADAMATIC DISTRIBUTOR

FORD GOVERNOR TYPE DISTRIBUTOR

PICK-UP COIL TEST

MODULE TEST

MAGNETO TEST

D1400 DISTRIBUTOR TESTER

The D1400 distributor tester is a complete service instrument designed to check distributor performance. This manual outlines a simple distributor test procedure that can be used with electronic and standard distributors. It also outlines special tests that can be preformed on electronic modules and coils.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

POWER SUPPLY The D1400 distributor tester operates from 115 volts 50/60 hertz 8 amps.

DRIVE MOTOR A heavy duty motor and speed control provide a wide range of speeds (up to 7500 RPM) in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions.

VACUUM PUMP The vacuum system includes a vacuum pump and vacuum gauge with control for variable vacuum readings.

DIAL-A-TRONIC TEST SELECTOR The DIAL-A-TRONIC test selector switch controls the operation of the test set. Ac power to the tester is controlled by a separate power On/Off switch with a pilot lamp.

ALWAYS TURN THE MOTOR POWER 'OFF' BY TURNING THE SPEED CONTROL FULL COUNTERCLOCKWISE BEFORE TURNING TESTER ON.

METERS

The D1400 displays the following meters and gauges:

DIGITAL RPM meter indicates distributor RPM

The CAM ANGLE meter includes condenser test, points resistance test and cam angle degree scale for 4,6,8 cylinder point dwell.

RESISTANCE meter displays resistance values in 4 ranges X 1 ohm, X 10 ohms, X 100 ohms and X 10k ohm.

VACUUM GAUGE displays vacuum

Magneto current measures magneto primary current to 30 amps and secondary current to 300 ma.

TEST LEAD FUNCTIONS

WHITE

BLUE

Yellow

GREEN

RED

BLACK

HIGH TENSION

LEAD

25 amp. Ammeter Lead

1) Ohmmeter + lead

2) Coil Test + lead

3)Capacitor Test lead

1) Ohmmeter Test Lead

2) Coil Test Lead

3) Capacitor Test

Lead

4) Pick-up Coil Test

Input Lead

5) Module Test

Output Lead

Points Input Test Lead

+12VDC Supply Lead

"Earth" Ground Lead

Spark Plug Input

20,000V\-100,000VDC

INITIAL SETUP INSTRUCTIONS

1.0 Turn the 'MOTOR SPEED CONTROL FULL COUNTERCLOCKWISE' and 'MAIN POWER' switch in the 'OFF position.

1.1 Connect the D1400 distributor tester to an AC power

source 115volts 50/60 Hertz 8 amps

1.2 CAUTION DO NOT OPERATE MOTOR without a distributor

mounted in the chuck. Select the distributor drive

rotation BEFORE operating the motor. DO NOT REVERSE

the motor direction with motor running. Always turn the

speed control full counterclockwise (off) before

reversing direction. Failure to do this may damage the

distributor under test.

1.3 Mount the distributor in the V clamp and lower it

into the chuck. Clamp the distributor firmly and

align the clamp over the center position. Rotate the

disk by hand until the clamp is properly centered and

the disk rotates freely. Tighten distributor clamp

knob.

1.4 Turn the Main power 'on' and adjust the speed control clockwise until the distributor is turning at a slow speed to check for good alignment.

1.5 Turn the Main Power and the motor speed control full counterclockwise. Continue testing by going to the section best describing the type

of distributor under test. These are as follows:

Section 2.0 Electronic distributor with coil

Section 3.0 Electronic distributor without coil.

Section 4.0 coil test

Section 5.0 standard points distributor without coil

Section 6.0 standard points distributor with coil

Section 7.0 Standard condenser test

Section 8.0 Ohmmeter operation

Section 9.0 Helpful test instructions

Section 10.0 Magneto testing.

ELECTRONIC TYPE DISTRIBUTORS WITH COIL

2.0 A complete electronic distributor can be checked

performance off the vehicle on the D1400. Remove the

distributor cap (not required) coil, primary

ballast resistor and electronic module from the

vehicle. If a cable resistor is used replace it with a

fixed resistor of the same value and wattage. Connect

the system up the same as it was on the vehicle.

2.1 Connect the D1400 black test lead to the distributor case.

Connect the D1400 red test lead to the distributor

+12 Vdc (battery terminal).

2.2 To test the distributor with the distributor cap connect all of the spark plug leads to the spark plug load provided, up to 8 plugs.

If not using the distributor cap, connect the distributor cap then connect the coil spark lead to the spark plug load number one plug. If the distributor has an integral coil (GM HEI) then all of the plug leads must connected to the spark plug load.

2.3 Set the D1400 controls as follows

a Dial-A-Tronic switch to 'Electronic with coil'

b Ohmmeter settings do not apply

c Standard Dwell Test Switch does not apply

d Motor speed control full Off (CCW)

e Motor direction CW or CCW as required by the

distributor under test.

f Vacuum pump 'Off'

g Ammeter switch 300 ma

2.4 Turn the D1400 Main Power 'On', Turn the motor speed control full counterclockwise.

2.5 Turn the Motor speed Control Clockwise until the motor

begins to turn. The neon tube should flash indicating the

number of plugs on the distributor.

2.6 Turn the motor speed control up until the distributor is

running at normal engine RPMs the flashes should indicate a

stable pattern.

Note the spacing of all the flashes in relation to the protractor 4,6, or 8 markers. flashes must be evenly spaced , within 3 degrees. Uneven flashes are caused by worn bushings, bent shaft or word or defective pick-up coil plate.

2.7 Vacuum tests for distributors with a mechanical vacuum

advance. If the distributor has no vacuum control skip

to section 2.10 .

Turn the 'Vacuum ' pump switch 'On' Hold thumb tightly over

the end of the 'Vacuum Hose' and adjust the "Vacuum Control

'Vacuum gauge reads 18. Now connect the hose to the

distributor vacuum advance nipple. The Vacuum Gauge should

return to 18 if is does not the Vacuum advance unit has

a leaky diaphragm .

2.8 Turn the Vacuum control until the Vacuum Gauge reads 0 or

pull the vacuum hose off of the nipple.

2.9 Vacuum advance test.

With the hose or zero vacuum adjust the distributor flash

to protractor zero. Gradually increase the vacuum and

observe the movement of the neon flash. Replace the vacuum

control or recalibrates spring tension when vacuum

advance does not perform according to specified limits.

any deviation over 3 degrees indicates wear in the pick-up

coil plate or bearings.

2.10 Turn the 'Motor speed control' full CCW.

Turn the D1400 'main Power' 'Off'

2.11 View the spark flashes on the spark plug load assembly OR

connect an adjustable spark gap to the coil or distributor

output and connect the ground side of the adjustable

spark gap to the distributor case.

2.12 Turn the D1400 Main Power 'On'

2.13 Turn the Motor speed Control Clockwise until the motor

begins to turn. The spark gap should indicate a bright

strong blue spark . A weak thin pale spark indicates a

faulty coil or weak module.

2.14 To stop the test Turn the 'Motor speed control' full CCW.

Turn the D1400 'main Power' 'Off'

Disconnect the Distributor and remove it from the Tester.

Electronic Distributor test complete

ELECTRONIC TYPE DISTRIBUTORS WITHOUT COIL

A electronic distributor can be performance

checked off the vehicle on the D1400 Remove the

distributor. and electronic module from the

vehicle. Connect the system up the same as it was on the

vehicle.

3.1 Connect the D1400 black test lead to the distributor

case.

Connect the D1400 red test lead to the distributor

+12 Vdc (battery terminal).

Connect the terminal that would have gone to the vehicle

coil to the D1400 'Green' test lead.

3.2 Set the D1400 controls as follows

a Dial-A-Tronic switch to 'Electronic without coil'

b Ohmmeter settings do not apply

c Standard Dwell Test Switch does not apply

d Motor speed control full Off (CCW)

e Motor direction CW or CCW as required by the

distributor under test.

f Vacuum Pump 'Off'

g Ammeter switch 300ma

3.3 Turn the D1400 Main Power 'On', Turn the motor speed control full CCW.

3.4 Turn the Motor speed Control Clockwise until the motor

begins to turn. The neon tube should flash indicating the

number of plugs on the distributor.

3.5 Turn the motor speed control CW until the distributor is

running at normal engine RPMs the flashes should indicate a

stable pattern.

Note the spacing of all the flashes in relation to the

protractor 4,6, or 8 markers. flashes must be evenly

spaced , within 3 degrees. Uneven flashes are caused by

worn bushings, bent shaft or word or defective pick-up

coil plate.

3.6 Vacuum tests for distributors with a mechanical vacuum

advance. If the distributor has no vacuum control skip

to section 3.10 .

Turn the 'Vacuum ' pump switch 'On' Hold thumb tightly over

the end of the 'Vacuum Hose' and adjust the "Vacuum Control

'Vacuum gauge reads 18. Now connect the hose to the

distributor vacuum advance nipple. The Vacuum Gauge should

return to 18 if is does not the Vacuum advance unit has

a leaky diaphragm .

3.7 Turn the Vacuum control until the Vacuum Gauge reads 0 or

pull the vacuum hose off of the nipple.

3.8 Vacuum advance test.

With the hose or zero vacuum adjust the distributor flash

to protractor zero. Gradually increase the vacuum and

observe the movement of the neon flash. Replace the vacuum

control or recalibrates spring tension when vacuum

advance does not perform according to specified limits.

any deviation over 3 degrees indicates wear in the pick-up

coil plate or bearings.

3.9 To stop the test Turn the 'Motor speed control' full CCW.

Turn the D1400 'main Power' 'Off'

Disconnect the Distributor and remove it from the Tester.

COIL TEST

4.1 Insure that the D1400 'Main power ' is 'Off'.

4.2 Insure the motor speed control full CCW

4.3 Connect the coil up as follow

a Connect the coil + side (battery) to the

D1400 'BLUE' test lead.

b Connect the coil - side (points or module) to the

D1400 'Yellow ' test lead

c Connect the D1400 High Tension lead (red) to the

the coil high tension output.

4.4 Set the D1400 controls as follows

a Dial-A-Tronic switch to 'Coil Test'

b Ohmmeter settings do not apply

c Standard Dwell Test Switch does not apply

d Motor speed control full Off (CCW)

e Motor direction CW or CCW .

4.5 Turn the D1400 Main Power 'On'

4.6 Turn the Motor speed Control Clockwise until the motor

begins to turn. The neon tube should flash indicating the

the coil is working . There should be two equally spaced

marks on the neon tube. A good coil will produce uniform

marks on the neon display.

4.7 To stop the test Turn the 'Motor speed control' full CCW.

Turn the D1400 'main Power' 'Off'

Disconnect the coil and remove it from the Tester.

STANDARD POINTS DISTRIBUTOR WITHOUT COIL

5.1 Insure that the D1400 'Main Power' and the Motor speed control is full CCW.

Connect the D1400 black test lead to the distributor

case.

Connect the terminal that would have gone to the vehicle

coil to the D1400 'Green' test lead.

5.2 Set the D1400 controls as follows

a Dial-A-Tronic switch to 'Standard without coil'

b Ohmmeter settings do not apply

c Standard Dwell Test Switch to 'Points Resistance'

d Motor speed control full Off (CCW)

e Motor direction CW or CCW as required by the

distributor under test.

f Vacuum Pump 'Off'

g Ammeter switch to 300 ma

5.3 POINTS RESISTANCE TEST

Turn the D1400 Main Power 'On'.

Rotate the Chuck by hand until the breaker points are

closed and the lowest meter reading is obtained on the

points test scale.

Points condition is indicated on the meter . Replace the

points,pigtail, or breaker plate when the meter indicates

above the O.K. zone.

CAM ANGLE ADVANCE TESTS SECTION 5.4 THROUGH 5.12

5.4 Set the D1400 controls as follows

a Standard dwell Test Switch to cylinder dwell as

indicated by the number of cylinders required

4,6,or 8.

b Dial-A-Tronic switch to 'Standard without coil'

c Motor Power switch to 'On'

FIG I

5.5 Turn the Motor speed Control Clockwise until the motor

begins to turn. The neon tube should flash indicating the

number of plugs on the distributor.

Rotate the distributor and adjust the rotating disc neon

flash to protractor zero. If the neon flashes "crawl"

tighten the chuck.

5.6 Adjust the motor speed control CW until the distributor

has reached normal running speed.

5.7 Observe the Cam Angle reading on the cam angle meter

scale that applies to the distributor under test, over

the full speed range. Variations over 3 degrees indicate a

the breaker plate or worn bushings. Make this test the

vacuum hose not connected to the vacuum advance chamber.

5.8 MECHANICAL ADVANCE Check distributor advance at specified

speeds for START ,LOW, INT and MAX ranges. Refer to

manufactures specifications for limits, or allow +/- 2

degrees. Note : the neon flash movement is always in the

opposite direction of distributor movement.

5.9 VACUUM CONTROL LEAKAGE TEST

Turn the 'Vacuum ' pump switch 'On' Hold thumb tightly over

the end of the 'Vacuum Hose' and adjust the "Vacuum Control

'Vacuum gauge reads 18. Now connect the hose to the

distributor vacuum advance nipple. The Vacuum Gauge should

return to 18 if is does not the Vacuum advance unit has

a leaky diaphragm . A zero reading indicates a ruptured

diaphragm. Caution always test Ford, Lincoln ,and

Mercury loadmatic type distributors at 6 inches or as

specified by the manufacturer.

5.10 VACUUM ADVANCE TEST - With the vacuum hose off or zero

vacuum adjust the flash to protractor zero. Gradually

increase the vacuum and observe the neon flash. Replace

vacuum control or recalibrates spring if the advance does

not perform over specified limits. Observe the cam angle

over the complete vacuum advance operating range. The Cam

angle should not change over the complete operating range.

Any deviation over 3 degrees indicates a wear in the

breaker plate or bearings.

5.11 CAM LOBE ACCURACY Note the spacing of all flashes in

relation to the protractor 4,6, or 8 markers. Flashes

must be evenly spaced within 3 degrees. When the spacing

varies consistently between two flashes the cam lobe is

worn or uneven. Uneven flashes are caused by bent shaft

and a defective or worn breaker plate.

FIG II

5.12 To stop the test Turn the 'Motor speed control' full CCW.

Turn the D1400 'main Power' 'Off'

Disconnect the Distributor and remove it from the Tester.

STANDARD POINTS TEST COMPLETE

STANDARD POINTS DISTRIBUTOR WITH COIL

6.1 Insure that the D1400 'Main Power' and the 'Motor speed control is full CCW.

Connect the D1400 black test lead to the distributor

case.

Connect the terminal that would have gone to the vehicle

coil to the D1400 'Green' test lead. The coil and ballast

resistor will be connected later.

6.2 Set the D1400 controls as follows

a Dial-A-Tronic switch to 'Standard without coil'

b Ohmmeter settings do not apply

c Standard Dwell Test Switch to 'Points Resistance'

d Motor speed control full Off (CCW)

e Motor direction CW or CCW as required by the

distributor under test.

f Vacuum Pump 'Off'

g Ammeter switch to 300 ma

6.3 POINTS RESISTANCE TEST

Turn the D1400 Main Power 'On'.

Rotate the Chuck by hand until the breaker points are

closed and the lowest meter reading is obtained on the

points test scale.

Points condition is indicated on the meter . Replace the

points,pigtail, or breaker plate when the meter indicates

above the O.K. zone.

6.6 Turn the Motor speed Control Clockwise until the motor

begins to turn. The neon tube should flash indicating the

number of plugs on the distributor.

Rotate the distributor and adjust the rotating disc neon

flash to protractor zero. If the neon flashes "crawl"

tighten the chuck.

6.6 Adjust the motor speed control CW until the distributor

has reached normal running speed.

Observe the Cam Angle reading on the cam angle meter

scale that applies to the distributor under test, over

the full speed range. Variations over 3 degrees indicate a

the breaker plate or worn bushings. Make this test the

vacuum hose not connected to the vacuum advance chamber.

6.7 Set the D1400 controls as follows

Turn the 'Main Power' and the 'Motor Power' to 'Off'

a Dial-A-Tronic switch to 'Standard with coil'

b Ohmmeter settings do not apply

c Standard Dwell Test Switch does not apply

d Motor speed control full Off (CCW)

e Motor direction CW or CCW as required by the

distributor under test.

f Vacuum Pump 'Off'

g ammeter switch to 300 ma

6.8 Connect the coil distributor and ballast resistor as they

are in the vehicle.

Connect the D1400 black test lead to the distributor case

Connect the D1400 'RED' test lead to the Ballast resistor

or coil + lead (battery).

To test the distributor with the distributor cap connect all of the spark plug leads to the spark plug load provided, up to 8 plugs.

To test the distributor without the distributor cap thenconnect the coil output to spark plug number one on the spark plug load.

6.9 Turn the D1400 'Main Power'

Adjust the motor speed control CW until the distributor

has reached normal running speed.

6.10 MECHANICAL ADVANCE Check distributor advance at specified

speeds for START ,LOW, INT and MAX ranges. Refer to

manufactures specifications for limits, or allow +/- 2

degrees. Note : the neon flash movement is always in the

opposite direction of distributor movement.

6.11 VACUUM CONTROL LEAKAGE TEST

Turn the 'Vacuum ' pump switch 'On' Hold thumb tightly over

the end of the 'Vacuum Hose' and adjust the "Vacuum Control

'Vacuum gauge reads 18. Now connect the hose to the

distributor vacuum advance nipple. The Vacuum Gauge should

return to 18 if is does not the Vacuum advance unit has

a leaky diaphragm . A zero reading indicates a ruptured

diaphragm. Caution always test Ford, Lincoln ,and

Mercury loadmatic type distributors at 6 inches or as

specified by the manufacturer.

6.12 VACUUM ADVANCE TEST - With the vacuum hose off or zero

vacuum adjust the flash to protractor zero. Gradually

increase the vacuum and observe the neon flash. Replace

vacuum control or recalibrates spring if the advance does

not perform over specified limits.

FIG III

6.13 CAM LOBE ACCURACY Note the spacing of all flashes in

relation to the protractor 4,6, or 8 markers. Flashes

must be evenly spaced within 3 degrees. When the spacing

varies consistently between two flashes the cam lobe is

worn or uneven. Uneven flashes are caused by bent shaft

and a defective or worn breaker plate.

FIG IV

6.14 To stop the test Turn the 'Motor speed control' full CCW.

Turn the D1400 'main Power' 'Off'

Disconnect the Distributor and remove it from the Tester.

STANDARD POINTS WITH COIL TEST COMPLETE

CONDENSER TEST

7.1 Insure that the D1400 'Main Power and "Motor speed control is full CCW.

7.2 Set the standard test switch to 'Capacity test'

All other switches do not apply.

7.3 Connect the condenser between the D1400 'Blue' and 'Yellow

test leads.

7.4 Turn on the D1400 'Main Power'

The condenser capacity in micro-farads will be displayed

on the capacity scale of the dwell meter.

A shorted condenser will read full scale and an open or

leaky condenser will read below specifications.

7.5 Condenser test complete

Turn off the D1400 'Main power' and disconnect the

condenser.

OHMMETER OPERATION

8.1 The D1400 incorporates a 4 range ohmmeter.

To use the ohmmeter set the 'Dial-A-Tronic' switch to

'Ohmmeter'.

Turn the D1400 main power 'On' and select the ohmmeter

range x1 ohm, x100 ohms, x1k ohm or x10k ohms.

8.2 Connect the device to be measured between the D1400

'Blue' and 'Yellow' test leads. and read the resistance

on the appropriate scale on the ohmmeter.

8.3 When complete disconnect the test leads.

HELPFUL TEST INSTRUCTIONS

9.1 Ford-Lincoln-Mercury double diaphragm distributors

Some Ford type loadamatic distributors incorporate a

Double Diaphragm type spark advance for better control of

breaker plate advance characteristics. The purpose of the

second diaphragm is to provide a rapid spark retard at the

acceleration tip in point. The primary spark control

diaphragm (next to the distributor body) operates in the

same manner as a single diaphragm. The secondary diaphragm

(furthest from the distributor body) is not connected to

either the breaker plate or the primary diaphragm.. There

is an air chamber between the two diaphragms. the secondary

diaphragm is held in an outward position by straight intake

manifold vacuum working against a calibrated spring.

In operation the secondary diaphragm forces a quick

momentary spark retard while the distributor vacuum line,

carburetor vacuum passages and primary spark control

diaphragm are normalizing to new pressure conditions, which

develop when the carburetor spark control valve closes the

manifold vacuum passage in the carburetor. when the

throttle is opened for rapid acceleration, manifold

vacuum drops quickly, and the spring loaded secondary

diaphragm moves toward the primary control diaphragm. The

resulting air pressure between the two diaphragms

pushes the primary diaphragm inward, providing a fast spark

retard to minimize detonation.

Ford-Lincoln-Mercury double diaphragm distributors

Test procedure

9.1.1 Install and connect the distributor Test point resistance

adjust the cam angle

9.1.2 Connect the vacuum hose to the primary diaphragm next to

the distributor body. Check diaphragm for leakage. Set the

vacuum to 18" with hose blocked by pinching; release hose

and the reading should not drop below original setting.

When the reading drops below the original the diaphragm is

leaking and should be replaced.

9.1.3 Check the vacuum advance. Adjust the primary and secondary

springs where necessary. The procedure is the same as a

standard single diaphragm loadamatic type. Refer to vehicle

manual for more information.

FIG V

FORD-LINCOLN-MERCURY LOADAMATIC DISTRIBUTORS

Loadamatic distributors control the spark advance by a

vacuum operated diaphragm assembly, connected to the

carburetor venturi. The vacuum diaphragm is connected by a

suitable linkage to the breaker plate assembly and controls

the distributor timing advance, while the tension of the

breaker plate springs will retract the plate and retard the

spark. No centrifugal weights are used in this type of

distributor, as spark timing is controlled entirely by

the vacuum variation in the carburetor venturi, which is in

turn controlled by throttle opening conditions.

Test Procedure

9.2.1 Install and connect the distributor. select direction

Connect the D1400 black test lead to distributor case ground.

Connect the D1400 Green test lead to the points.

Set Dial-A-Tronic switch to 'standard no coil'

Turn D1400 Main power 'On'

9.2.2 Set standard tests switch to proper Dwell range 4,6,or 8

9.2.3 Turn the Motor speed Control Clockwise until the motor

begins to turn. The neon tube should flash indicating the

number of plugs on the distributor.

Adjust motor for 200 RPM

9.2.4 Calibrate RPM Adjust points to specified cam angle

variations at all speeds. reading should not vary +/-

2 degrees.

9.2.5 Connect the hose to the vacuum control. Check vacuum

diaphragm for leakage at 6 inches.

9.2.6 Hold the breaker plate against the stops in full retard

position and adjust the distributor neon flash to

protractor zero.

9.2.7 Release the plate and check spark advance at all specified

vacuum settings.

When adjustment is required:

Adjust the primary light spring first using the second

column of vacuum specifications.

Adjust the heavy spring last using the final column of

vacuum specifications.

FIG VI

FORD ENGINE GOVERNOR SPEED TEST

9.3.1 Install the distributor in the clamp and chuck. attach the

vacuum adapter to the lower fitting on the distributor

housing. Turn on the vacuum pump and adjust the gauge to 6"

with hose closed. Attach the hose to the distributor.

9.3.2 Set the Dial-A-Tronic switch to 'standard no coil'

Turn the D1400 main power 'On'

9.3.3 Operate the distributor in the correct rotation and

adjust the speed above the governed RPM range.

Refer to factor specifications for governed speed

setting. The vacuum will read 6'' indicating that

the governor valve is in the closed position.

9.3.4 Decrease speed slowly and note the RPM reading at which the

the vacuum gauge starts to drop. The indicated distributor

RPM is one half of the no load cut off engine speed.

The vacuum reading will be high above the governed speed

and drop below governed setting.

9.3.5 Recheck speed range above and below governed RPM to

obtain an accurate test. When the governor requires

adjustment, stop drive motor and remove the plug which

provides access to the adjusting screw in the valve

assembly.

9.3.6 Rotate the distributor shaft by hand until the adjusting

screw lines up with the hole adjust screw to the right to

increase governed speed or to the left to decrease the

governed speed. One turn in either direction will change

the closing speed approximately 50 distributor RPM.

ELECTRONIC PICK-UP COIL

A electronic pick-up coil can be performance

checked off the vehicle on the D1400 . Mount the

distributor on the D1400. note the pick-up coil

must produce .2 vdc to be tested on the D1400.

10.1 Connect the D1400 black test lead to the pick-up

low side, see manufacture specification.

Connect the pick-up coil high side to the D1400

'Yellow' test lead.

10.2 Set the D1400 controls as follows

a Dial-A-Tronic switch to 'pick-up coil'

b Ohmmeter settings do not apply

c Standard Dwell Test Switch does not apply

d Motor speed control full Off (CCW)

e Motor direction CW or CCW as required by the

distributor under test.

f Vacuum Pump 'Off'

g Ammeter switch to 300 ma

10.3 Turn the D1400 Main Power 'On'

10.4 Turn the Motor speed Control Clockwise until the motor

begins to turn. The neon tube should flash indicating the

number of plugs on the distributor.

10.5 Turn the motor speed control up until the distributor is

running at normal engine RPMs the flashes should indicate a

stable pattern.

10.6 Note the spacing of all the flashes in relation to the

protractor 4,6, or 8 markers. flashes must be evenly

spaced , within 3 degrees. Uneven flashes are caused by

worn bushings, bent shaft or word or defective pick-up

coil plate.

10.7 Vacuum tests for distributors with a mechanical vacuum

advance. If the distributor has no vacuum control skip

to section 3.10.

Turn the 'Vacuum ' pump switch 'On' Hold thumb tightly over

the end of the 'Vacuum Hose' and adjust the "Vacuum Control

'Vacuum gauge reads 18. Now connect the hose to the

distributor vacuum advance nipple. The Vacuum Gauge should

return to 18 if is does not the Vacuum advance unit has

a leaky diaphragm .

10.8 Turn the Vacuum control until the Vacuum Gauge reads 0 or

pull the vacuum hose off of the nipple.

10.9 Vacuum advance test.

With the hose or zero vacuum adjust the distributor flash

to protractor zero. Gradually increase the vacuum and

observe the movement of the neon flash. Replace the vacuum

control or recalibrates spring tension when vacuum

advance does not perform according to specified limits.

any deviation over 3 degrees indicates wear in the pick-up

coil plate or bearings.

10.10 To stop the test Turn the 'Motor speed control' full CCW.

Turn the D1400 'main Power' 'Off'

Disconnect the Distributor and remove it from the Tester.

ELECTRONIC MODULE TEST

Some electronic modules can be tested

off the vehicle on the D1400 .

see module manufacture specifications.

11.1 Connect the module as follows.

Connect the D1400 black test lead to the module

ground (-) side

Connect the D1400 Red lead to the module Battery (+) lead.

Note some electronic modules require a regulated power supply. The d1400 has a 2 amp regulated supply available from front panel test points for this purpose.

Connect the module trigger or pick_up coil lead(+) to

D1400 'Yellow' test lead.

Connect the module Coil (output) lead to the D1400

'green' test lead.

11.2 Set the D1400 controls as follows

a Dial-A-Tronic switch to 'MODULE'

b Ohmmeter settings do not apply

c Standard Dwell Test Switch does not apply

d Motor speed control full Off (CCW)

e Motor direction CW or CCW as required by the

distributor under test.

f Vacuum Pump 'Off'

g ammeter switch to 300 ma

11.3 Turn the D1400 Main Power 'On', Turn Motor Power 'On'

11.4 Turn the Motor speed Control Clockwise until the motor

begins to turn. The neon tube should flash indicating

two flashes per revolution. The D1400 produces two trigger

pulses per revolution. The modules under test creates

the coil drive signal that indicates the flashes on the

D1400. The flashes should be uniform and not intermittent.

Turn the motor speed control up until normal engine speed

for the module under test is reached.

11.6 To stop the test Turn the 'Motor speed control' full CCW.

Turn the D1400 'main Power' 'Off'

Disconnect the module and remove it from the Tester.

MAGNETO TYPE DISTRIBUTORS

12.0 A complete MAGNETO TYPE distributor can be checked

off the vehicle on the D1400.

To test a Magneto type distributor with the distributor cap in place connect all of the spark plug leads to the spark plug load provided, up to 8 plugs.

If not using the magneto distributor cap, connect the magneto high tension lead the spark plug load number one plug.

12.1 Connect the D1400 black test lead to the distributor case.

12.3 Set the D1400 controls as follows

a Dial-A-Tronic switch to 'MAGNETO'

b Ohmmeter settings do not apply

c Standard Dwell Test Switch does not apply

d Motor speed control full Off (CCW)

e Motor direction CW or CCW as required by the

distributor under test.

f Vacuum pump 'Off'

g Ammeter switch to 300ma

12.4 Turn the D1400 Main Power 'On', Turn the motor speed control full counterclockwise.

12.5 Turn the Motor speed Control Clockwise until the motor

begins to turn. The neon tube should flash indicating the

number of plugs on the MAGNETO.

12.6 Turn the motor speed control up until the MAGNETO is

running at normal engine RPMs the flashes should indicate a

stable pattern.

Note the spacing of all the flashes in relation to the protractor 4,6, or 8 markers. The flashes should be evenly spaced , within 3 degrees. Uneven flashes are caused by worn bushings, bent shaft or worn or defective Magneto trigger assembly.

Read the Magneto secondary (HIGH VOLTAGE) AC current

on the milliammeter at 300ma full scale.

12.7 Vacuum tests for Magnetos with a mechanical vacuum

advance. If the magneto has no vacuum control skip

to section 2.10 .

Turn the 'Vacuum ' pump switch 'On' Hold thumb tightly over

the end of the 'Vacuum Hose' and adjust the "Vacuum Control

'Vacuum gauge reads 18. Now connect the hose to the

distributor vacuum advance nipple. The Vacuum Gauge should

return to 18 if is does not the Vacuum advance unit has

a leaky diaphragm .

12.8 Turn the Vacuum control until the Vacuum Gauge reads 0 or

pull the vacuum hose off of the nipple.

12.9 Vacuum advance test.

With the hose or zero vacuum adjust the distributor flash

to protractor zero. Gradually increase the vacuum and

observe the movement of the neon flash. Replace the vacuum

control or recalibrates spring tension when vacuum

advance does not perform according to specified limits.

any deviation over 3 degrees indicates wear in the pick-up

coil plate or bearings.

12.10 Turn the 'Motor speed control' full CCW.

Turn the D1400 'main Power' 'Off'

12.11 The spark flashes may be viewed on the spark plug load assembly OR an adjustable spark gap.

To use an adjustable spark gap assembly connect the ground side of the adjustable spark gap to the magneto case and the high side to the coil output.

12.12 Turn the D1400 Main Power 'On'

12.13 Turn the Motor speed Control Clockwise until the motor

begins to turn. The spark gap should indicate a bright

strong blue spark . A weak thin pale spark indicates a

faulty coil or weak module.

12.14 To stop the test Turn the 'Motor speed control' full CCW.

12.15 To test the Magneto primary current connect the

Purple test lead from the D1400 to the magnetos primary

current output.

Set the Ammeter switch to the 30 amp position.

12.16 Turn the Motor speed Control Clockwise until the motor

begins to turn and slowly bring the Magneto to full RPM.

The ammeter should will the maximum available primary Ac current up to 30 amps.

DO NOT RUN THIS TEST FOR MORE THAN 30 SECONDS TO AVOID OVERHEATING THE D1400 Ammeter LOAD.

12.17 To stop the test Turn the 'Motor speed control' full CCW.

Turn the D1400 'main Power' 'Off'

Disconnect the Magneto and remove it from the Tester.

MAGNETO TEST COMPLETE