Recommend me a Straight Edge

[kunkernator]

I am talking about a machined straight edge, used for checking flatness of surfaces.

I have NO idea where to start with this, all I know is Snap On sells some, who else?

I would like one that is around 24'' long.

Thanks

 

[royesses]

Enco, MSC come to mind. True straight edges can get quite expensive.

 

[kunkernator]

Enco, MSC come to mind. True straight edges can get quite expensive.

I understand the price related to the product. I see SPI and Starret on Enco-USA's website. Obviously Starret is a good brand, but I have never heard of SPI?

Also what is the difference between a beveled edge and square edge?

 

[OkRider]

Starrett or Mitutoyo. Forget Snap-On. You are talking about serious machinist tools, or at least I am.

 

[LB-1911]

Link is still valid as well.

http://www.tooltopia.com/central-tools-central-lighting-6429.aspx

The General model is the one I have. Make sure you store it properly. Anything longer and it would be real difficult to check block surfaces in the vehicle.

 

[kunkernator]

Starrett or Mitutoyo. Forget Snap-On. You are talking about serious machinist tools, or at least I am.

Just naming it as reference.

Link is still valid as well.

I like the look of that.

It looks like SPI, Starret, and Central Tools all make a 24'' edge for under $100.

 

[Leoruiz]

I use a round one and keep it hanging on a hook. An engine builder in Carolina gave it to me decades ago. It's tempered 5160 and chrome plated.
Looks like this one.
https://www.goodson.com/Round-Warp-Gauge/

 

[royesses]

I understand the price related to the product. I see SPI and Starret on Enco-USA's website. Obviously Starret is a good brand, but I have never heard of SPI?

Also what is the difference between a beveled edge and square edge?

SPI - Swiss precision Instruments. They were purchased by MSC and now are an MSC/Enco house brand. They have been pretty good products so far. Not all are swiss made though.

 

[kunkernator]

SPI - Swiss precision Instruments. They were purchased by MSC and now are an MSC/Enco house brand. They have been pretty good products so far. Not all are swiss made though.

Gotcha. I think I am going to go with the Central Tools one that someone listed above. I believe it is the one we have at work anyway. Thanks for all the replies guys!

 

[jrobb316]

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002SQUVI/?tag=atomicindus08-20

this is the one i have. Central Tools, and no thats NOT HF. USA made

 

[Lx460]

You would likely find some at a Minor Threat show in the 80s.

 

[larry_g]

Check the specs on the straight edges your looking at. Some are straighter than others and if no spec is given then I would be suspect if you do not have a known flat to check it against. Nothing worse than a measuring tool that is not up to the job, and can not be trusted.

lg
no neat sig line

 

[Leoruiz]

Check the specs on the straight edges your looking at. Some are straighter than others and if no spec is given then I would be suspect if you do not have a known flat to check it against. Nothing worse than a measuring tool that is not up to the job, and can not be trusted.

lg
no neat sig line

Cylinder head surfaces and block decks are one thing, a line bore for the crank is a whole 'nother animal.I prefer round because the square and beveled edges can create a false drag on a feeler gauge.

 

[Adam.C]

Beware of Chinese machine tools. They notoriously claim tolerances they have no possible intention of holding. I have been better off buying second hand Starrett on ebay than new chinese machine tools.

 

[BDT/NWMN]

Good straight edges should be findable on the internet... But when thinking about the delivery mode; might have to mention to UPS or USPS that you didn't order a horse shoe... When I recall the condition some of my packages have arrived in, I would be a little more "seriously" concerned if ordering one, and request extra heavy packing.. eBay sellers come to mind.