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Spindle Tram Indicator Holder

*** DOWNLOAD PDF INSTRUCTIONS ***

This is the simplest, most rugged design you will find anywhere.

The item for sale is an INDICATOR HOLDER ONLY. No dial indicators are included. The indicators in the photos are for reference only.

What is so great about this Indicator Holder?

Version 2.0

  • Simplicity
  • Fool proof and precise calibration
  • 5.75 inches between points for maximum accuracy
  • Sized to accept indicators with .375" stem
  • Precision ground steel dowel pin shank (.5" x 3.75")
  • Anodized 6061 Aluminum Body
  • 1/4 28 Nylon tipped set screws to protect your expensive dial indicators
  • You choose the accuracy because you choose your own indicators

Why don't you include dial indicators?

  • Choice: people have different needs and price points. You decide if you need .001, .0005, or .0001 resolution indicators and how much you want to spend.

How does the user calibrate the gage once they purchase and install the indicators? (download a PDF at the top of this page)

  • Calibration uses a simple "in-situ" Reference Point Process. This process is more accurate than using a surface plate to set both indicators at once. Calibrating with the gage clamped in the spindle eliminates compound error. For example, precision machine spindles are always ground with the bearings installed ("in-situ") to eliminate run-out from compound error. This calibration method uses the same principle.
  • All you need is the tram gage (with indicators installed) and a mill with a .5" collet
  • You can calibrate the gage even if your mill is currently out of tram, and the Reference Point Process makes this possible.
  • For maximum accuracy you must recalibrate the gage every time it is secured into a collet. This calibration method is actually more precise than the repeatability of the best collets. If you do not recalibrate, the gage will read clamping error in the collet, and not the true orientation of the spindle.

CALIBRATION PROCEDURE:

  1. Secure the gage in a .5" collet
  2. Lower the quill onto your reference point until the first indicator reads zero. An example of a reference point is the top of your vise jaws, the mill table itself, or even the stock you will be milling.
  3. Rotate the gage 180 degrees until the second indicator is touching the first reference point
  4. Rotate the gage face of the second indicator until it reads zero
  5. The gage is now calibrated

What motivated you to make and sell these Indicator Holders?

  • I wanted the fastest, most accurate way to tram my spindle. I also wanted a gage that was fast and easy to calibrate. This design is the result.
  • I also wanted to choose what type of indicator suited my needs instead of letting someone else decide, and I felt other people probably want the same thing.

What indicator do you recommend?

  • Any indicator with a .375" stem will do
  • Indicators with a .0400" measuring range are ideal for this application.
  • I recommend the Mitutoyo #2977. It is the best balance between price and accuracy.
    • Measuring range = .0400"
    • Graduation = .0005"
    • Dial Reading = 20-0-20
    • Price = (approx) $60.00 each
  • What are you waiting for? Stop wasting time traming and make some chips!

Shipping & Payment

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  • USPS Priority Mail Only
  • US & Canada Only