Automotive Dial Indicator for Precision Runout Measurement
Dial Indicator with Magnetic Base Holder can be used for tasks such as to check for warped brake rotors on an automobile. This tool is designed for precision measurements, and diagnosing brake rotor issues, specifically checking for runout (lateral movement or wobble) which is a classic use case in automotive repair.
Here’s how it works for checking your disc rotor and some other common applications:
Check Warped Brake Rotors
What You’re Measuring: Brake rotor "warping" typically refers to excessive runout, where the rotor surface isn’t perfectly flat or perpendicular to the hub as it spins. This can cause vibration or pulsation when braking.
- Mount the magnetic base securely on a stable metal surface near the rotor (like the suspension or a clean part of the hub).
- Position the dial indicator’s probe so it contacts the rotor surface, ideally about 1/4 inch from the outer edge.
- Zero the dial indicator.
- Rotate the rotor slowly by hand and observe the needle movement. The difference between the highest and lowest readings is the runout.
- Compare your measurement to your vehicle service manual specs (typically, max allowable runout is around 0.002–0.004 inches, or 0.05–0.10 mm, but check your specific model).