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Old Jun 16, 2014 | 01:03 PM
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Default 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?
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Old Jun 16, 2014 | 02:32 PM
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Default 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.
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Old Jun 16, 2014 | 02:41 PM
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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.
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Old Jun 16, 2014 | 03:12 PM
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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..
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Old Jun 16, 2014 | 03:18 PM
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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.
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Old Jun 16, 2014 | 06:18 PM
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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.



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Old Jun 16, 2014 | 07:46 PM
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Looks good Dustup.

Seems like people here prefer the magnetic base version?
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Old Jun 16, 2014 | 10:38 PM
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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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Old Jun 16, 2014 | 11:19 PM
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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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Old Jun 17, 2014 | 04:32 PM
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Originally Posted by briankeery
I've got the clamp on type. Currently at work.....will get you particulars in the morning.


Here's the one I picked up, worked great.


http://www.ebay.ca/itm/Pittsburgh-Cl...item1c3e8fb47c
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Old Jun 17, 2014 | 05:56 PM
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The Harbor Freight items worked fine for me. Not especially sturdy but for something that I will not use often, good enough.
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