Dial Indicator

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Jun 16, 2014 | 01:03 PM

Brcmpbl

Thread Starter

Drifting

Joined: May 2012

Posts: 1,353

Likes: 44

From: Calgary Alberta

Dial Indicator

Hi guys - I'm going to pick up a dial indicator for checking rotor run-out, etc. I'm looking at the flex arm with clamp type, as opposed to magnetic base ones. Anyone have any opinions on the flex arm type, understanding that different brands are of varying quality?

Jun 16, 2014 | 02:32 PM

20mercury

Safety Car

Joined: May 2008

Posts: 3,753

Likes: 721

From: Lafayette Louisiana

Harbor Freight for me

I bought the dial indicator and magnetic base from Harbor Freight, worked great for me to check rotor runout plus more.

Jun 16, 2014 | 02:41 PM

doorgunner

2026 Loser of the Year

Joined: Sep 2013

Posts: 36,595

Likes: 7,043

From: New Or-leens Loo-z-anna

Quote:

Originally Posted by 20mercury

I bought the dial indicator and magnetic base from Harbor Freight, worked great for me to check rotor runout plus more.

Buy mag. base and clamp types....for the use you'll give it buy the above indicator (U.S. quality brands could cost a couple hundred or more---but they would be machinist quality--no need for that)

H.F. stuff is good enough for brakes/engine work for garage tools.

Jun 16, 2014 | 03:12 PM

BBCorv70

Melting Slicks

Joined: Apr 2007

Posts: 3,189

Likes: 111

From: Tolland CT

Quote:

Originally Posted by 20mercury

I bought the dial indicator and magnetic base from Harbor Freight, worked great for me to check rotor runout plus more.

Same for me..

Jun 16, 2014 | 03:18 PM

Brcmpbl

Thread Starter

Drifting

Joined: May 2012

Posts: 1,353

Likes: 44

From: Calgary Alberta

Thanks guys. HF isn't as good an option in Canada as it is in the US because of shipping costs, etc. We have a similar outfit called Princess Auto - but those cats don't have any dial indicators somehow. I found one on Amazon.ca for about $50, it's the clamp type. I just need a cheapie to find the low spots in my rotors. Thanks again.

Jun 16, 2014 | 06:18 PM

Dustup7T2

Terrorizing Orange Cones

Joined: Oct 2007

Posts: 2,572

Likes: 17

From: Northern CO

I own a HF magnetic-based unit, too. Works great.

Too bad some things are not as convenient in Canada. Good luck in your search.

Jun 16, 2014 | 07:46 PM

Brcmpbl

Thread Starter

Drifting

Joined: May 2012

Posts: 1,353

Likes: 44

From: Calgary Alberta

Looks good Dustup.

Seems like people here prefer the magnetic base version?

Jun 16, 2014 | 10:38 PM

briankeery

Melting Slicks

Joined: Oct 2011

Posts: 3,453

Likes: 67

From: Midland Ontario

NCM Sinkhole Donor

I've got the clamp on type. Currently at work.....will get you particulars in the morning.

Last edited by briankeery; Jun 17, 2014 at 04:31 PM.

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Jun 16, 2014 | 11:19 PM

68/BB

Burning Brakes

Joined: Sep 2005

Posts: 769

Likes: 36

From: Goose Creek SC

I bought an inexpensive one I am assuming similar to the HF item. I took it to work and checked it against calibration standards just to see how accurate it was and it was fine. I even used it to check crank run out on my 468. Of course I wouldn't depend on it to remain accurate if it were put into heavy use. But for us grease monkeys tinkering in our home garage it is just fine. I really like the mag base because it is so quick and easy to use.

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