Help With Precision Straight Edge.

[njric71]

I'm thinking to buy a precision straight edge primarily for checking cylinder heads. Not something I hope to ever have to use very often. I just like having the right tool on hand no matter what job I'm faced with.

For those that do that sort of thing. How long of a straight edge should I get? Could I get away with a 24"? How about precision. Amazon has a relatively inexpensive 24" one accurate to .002 over 24". The higher end ones seem to be accurate to .001 over the entire length, but man do they get pricey depending on how long you need it to be.

 

[A_Pmech]

A cheap surface plate is cheaper and more accurate.

 

[Rlfd213]

I bought mine over 20 years ago and it's a 18" straight edge. I protect it like my torque wrenchs so that it doesn't get damaged. I don't remember what I paid for it but I use it for cylinder heads and block decks along with brake rotors.

 

[pacmktg]

Lee Valley has them in different lengths. I have I believe it is 38". Reasonable price and I use it for setting up my woodworking machinery.

 

[454ragtop]

A cheap surface plate is cheaper and more accurate.

Ok, I'll bite. How do you use a surface plate to check if a cyl. head is flat?

 

[zmotorsports]

I bought mine over 20 years ago and it's a 18" straight edge. I protect it like my torque wrenchs so that it doesn't get damaged. I don't remember what I paid for it but I use it for cylinder heads and block decks along with brake rotors.

^^ This. I purchased a new Snap-On precision straight edge over 25 years ago and treat it with the utmost respect, never leaving it out of its protective cover just lying on the bench. I use it and put it right away. I have the 18" version and it has done everything I need it to. I also have a shop grade granite surface plate (18"x24") that I use a lot but each have their respective uses.

Mike.