Can you identify this precision machine tool?

[Prof Steve]

As some of you know, I am liquidating some tools from my late father's precision machine shop. He ran hardinges till he retired in the late 1990s, and some of the tooling is left over. AI originally thought this Union Mfg tool was a center punch, and I know that's not the case. I imagine it was a set up tool. Does anyone know what its called? Thanks!

 

[gamescastspencer]

A ”wiggler”

 

[RoninB4]

^ correct ID in the post above. They're used for locating the edge of a block in milling operations. Can't see using one in a lathe, although Hardinge did make cute little milling machines in addition to the more well known lathes. Some folks prefer using the older "wiggler" instead of a more modern cylindrical edge finder. They're not really very accurate but they aren't expensive and often accurate enough for some types of work. My condolences for the loss of your father to you and your family.

 

[alfadan]

I remember seeing a video where the guy pointed out a wiggler could be used more accurately if the work was stopped before it kicked out. He put sharpie on the ball and snuck up on it until you could see it rubbed off, but no more. I've thought about testing that out.