Thread: TLC For An Old DI

Simon, the crystals on indicators are apparently slightly oversize and a special tool is used to insert them. However, the oversize bit means that they get a nice domed look when popped into the ring. I did think about it but got to the point where it was getting too hard to work out how to do it without getting complicated.
That tool that Dave posted looks interesting, although I'm not sure how easy it would be to put a pin in the end of a SHCS. However, if you did work out how to replace crystals, remove pointers and generally clean up indicators you might have discovered a nice little side line as I think we all have indicators that could do with some attention.

Michael

Thanks for posting that link Dave. My 8 inch Mitutoyo dial caliper stopped functioning correctly after a fall off the lathe and onto the concrete floor. I bought a 6" version yesterday but it measures 0.200" per revolution rather than the easier to see 0.100" of the 8". I tried to pop apart the 8 yesterday but 2 screws will not budge. I will have a go at entry through the dial. I have a hand remover.

Bob.

Originally Posted by simonl

Hi Dave,

Yea I did try to ease it out after removing a locking type circlip but it wouldn't move and I didn't want to force it. It's pretty badly damaged, I may be better off making a new one out of thin polycarbonate or something similar.

At this stage I will be happy if it is useable.

Cheers,

Simon

Simon,

Have a look on Ebay in the States. Often people sell spare parts including crystals, mainly for Starrett indicators, but you might be lucky.

Bob.

Originally Posted by Michael G

Simon, the crystals on indicators are apparently slightly oversize and a special tool is used to insert them. However, the oversize bit means that they get a nice domed look when popped into the ring. I did think about it but got to the point where it was getting too hard to work out how to do it without getting complicated.
That tool that Dave posted looks interesting, although I'm not sure how easy it would be to put a pin in the end of a SHCS. However, if you did work out how to replace crystals, remove pointers and generally clean up indicators you might have discovered a nice little side line as I think we all have indicators that could do with some attention.

Michael

OK so that domed looking front is created by inserting under tension. That makes sense, also gives it more strength to resist being accidently pushed in.

Dave,

If I pulled the body away from the front, the needle would have come off but then I would have ended up with the needle floating around in the front panel, I still need to find away to get the front glass off and I don't feel at all confident with my cock fingers to do that!

Cheers,

Simon

Crystal insertion -
233 : Crystal Insertion for indicators and calipers

Michael

I replaced a crystal a few years ago.

I found a discussion on a metalcraft site and sort of followed the method suggested by DoN Nichols.

I saved a copy of the relevant post.

Good Luck,

Findlay.

Originally Posted by Michael G

Simon, the crystals on indicators are apparently slightly oversize and a special tool is used to insert them. However, the oversize bit means that they get a nice domed look when popped into the ring. I did think about it but got to the point where it was getting too hard to work out how to do it without getting complicated.
That tool that Dave posted looks interesting, although I'm not sure how easy it would be to put a pin in the end of a SHCS. However, if you did work out how to replace crystals, remove pointers and generally clean up indicators you might have discovered a nice little side line as I think we all have indicators that could do with some attention.

Michael

Thats not a pin, it is the bolt turned down to that size.
If you follow the link he explains how he did it under the first photo.

Dave

Thanks Dave. I thought it might be turned from the photo you posted but as I've never had much luck turning SHCS so if I were going to make one I'd probably try inserting a pin rather than turning one down.
The link to the Don Nichols item was interesting too. Makes it sound simple, although as he comments getting the crystal out is a trick in itself.

Michael

Hi Simon,
All this is on my to do list as well.

Pick the oil up with a pin.

Stuart

Hi all,

I just received a reply email from BC AMES about the DI.

Here's their reply:

There has been an update to several features, but most of the parts are still available and the 312 remains in our product line.

The one problem we may have is the dial. I hope your dial is acceptable for use, it's tough to tell from the pictures. If it a cup dial we can not directly replace it. The new dials are flat and that requires changing the bezel which changes the look of the old indicator. With luck the damage is all to the crystal. If it is a cup dial the crystal usually can be inserted from the back with out any tools. New bezels have a retaining groove to keep the crystal from moving back (that is what the cup on the dial does in the old style) making the crystal very hard to insert without a cupping press. We use the cupping press even for the old style as it assures fast insertion without scratching the new crystal.

If there is backlash and sticking the only thing you can do is to disassemble and clean the parts. Reassemble the indicator making sure there is no damage to any of the parts and that the bearings are not worn. Adding most oils will make the indicator sticky as the oils dry out. You need a high quality clock oil that will not dry if you are going to oil the indicator. It does have brass bearings so it may will run dry better than with any of the common oils.

If you would prefer we can do the work here. A new 312 is currently priced at $267.00, repair and a calibration check can cost as much as half the cost of new, but if all it needs is a cleaning it would be less. Depending on what you want, I can have my repair department clean the indicator and not replace parts even if it does not fall in calibration specifications. I would let you know if we found damage that would keep the indicator from running well, replacement of parts would them be up to you. In this situation the cleaning, including replacement crystal and any small parts we need, would be $50.00. If you do decide to send it in, just make sure you pack it very carefully to avoid any shipping damage and send it to my attention at the address below.

Regards,

Anyway, I'm contemplating sending it for a crystal replacement, clean and hopefully a minor repair. At $50 it's probably not bad value. Just need to get a quote for sending it which I can probably do on line with Aust post.

Cheers,

Simon

You could not ask for a better response than that Simon.

Sounds good to me Simon.

Dave

Wow, that is indeed a great response.

In the meantime, you can improve the crystal a long way by polishing it with brasso or whatever other polishing compound you have, and a rag. I think I remember being caught using an electric toothbrush on such a chore once, come to think of it.

Greg

Thanks guys. I thought the same thing. No wonder they are still in business producing fine products. There is no substitute for good quality products and great service!

The Aus Post online calculator has quoted me as low as $16.90 for a parcel up to 2 Kg with registered international post requiring a signature in receipt.

How good is that?
Why do ebay USA sellers charge so much?

Simon