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Indexing bellhousing

spoolinhard

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Dial indicator is physically too big to fit in the bore. Will this angle give me an accurate measurement or do I need to purchase a mini dial indicato

IMG_20251223_133836244.jpg
 
If that's a Mag Base you're using, you should be able to move it around and get a better lineup.
Take the indicator off and see if the body and stem will fit into the bore? If not, you'll need another
indicator. The stem should be completely in the bore for a good reading. The setup needs to be
strong and stiff so the readings that you get repeat multiple times for accuracy.
bellhousings-Dial_Indicator_on_BH.jpg
 
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Even at an angle, it will measure the circle in all 360 degrees and should represent the position adjustment of the bellhousing as the smaller dial indicator was inside of the hole would. You're only looking for a center indication amount and the measurements would be representative of each other.
 
The first time I measured for runout, it was a frustrating and time consuming effort partly because the gauge itself, although small, was still crowded in a tight area. I got it done but for the second time I used it, I cut the rods/arms on the unit to make it all more compact. Now it is almost a single use tool so for anything where I actually need greater reach, I’d need longer pieces.
Still, I was able to get repeatable numbers set up at less than perfect angles as it appears in the pictures you posted.
 
I use a smaller finger type of indicator and then I setup up my phone in a stand and video the dial indicator as I slowly rotate the crankshaft. That lets me slowly replay the video so I can see the numbers and where they are at.

DSC_3456 (Large).JPG
 
I use a smaller finger type of indicator and then I setup up my phone in a stand and video the dial indicator as I slowly rotate the crankshaft. That lets me slowly replay the video so I can see the numbers and where they are at.

View attachment 1969221
That’s a Great Idea Andy !!
 
I've used the setup in post #1 many times. As long as nothing hits durinng the rotation to measure there is no issue. The phone idea is smart.
Doug
 
Just a quick note: If you want to check the face of the scattershield, make sure you keep the crankshaft thrusted
forward or rearward for all of the readings. The thrust bearing will have around 0.003-0.007 clearance and will
really mess with your brain if you're not thinking about it!
 
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