im looking for prices an information on precision measurement tools, outside micrometers, dial indicators,snap gauges, height micrometers, graduated burettes an other things like that.. I was wondering what kinds were better then others or which ones i should stay away from and how much they usually cost. Thank you for any information you may have in advance.
One of my brothers is a retired machinist and I borrow some of his tools from time to time. The name Starret stands out. I believe the good ones are pretty expensive. I have picked up some old excellent quality precision tools on estate sales, and even a garage sale once, for a song.
Been doing precision measurement for 20 years. You can't go wrong with Starrett, Mitutoyo or Brown & Sharpe equipment. However I have noticed some degredation in Starrett's quality at times. Bad to say but with some machinists having been laid off it's possible to find some good equipment in the pawn shops.
thank ya'll for the advice... what would be things i need to look out for when purchasing these tools??? like things to stay away from/things to jump on.
If buying used on micrometers make sure the anvils aren't chipped and are still paralell to each other and the graduations on the barrel and spindle are clear and easy to read. Also make sure there is no excessive play / shake in the threads and that they feel smooth all the way through the range. On calipers and indicators make sure you feel no binding or excessive looseness through their range and that they always return to the same reading. Calipers are fairly easy to clean if their is dirt in the rack but dial indicators can get complicated (similar to a watch movement inside). Good luck :thumbup:
Purchase a set of standards for your micrometers. I purchased mine from an industrial tools company. I check the "zero" before I start fitting engine components. Make sure the standards and the mikes are at the same temperature. Don't store mikes with the gap closed. It's a heating/cooling, expansion/contraction thing. The same holds true for calipers and bench vises.
The brands mentioned are good. I purchased some of my tools from pawn shops too. I may be crazy but I use a digital caliper and an infra-red heat gun (thermometer) I purchased at Harbor Freight.
The key is learning how to use the tools. Practice holding and reading micrometers by measuring feeler gauges. Same for a caliper.
I suggest storing measuring tools in a separate tool box.
Ossie
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