Looking at spine testers and WOW, they are pricey. Anyone have any plans for a DIY build? I wouldn't mind buying one but I think I can build a simple one.
I think mine was $100. Worth it
I had a previously owned, old Ace 101; I didn't bond with it (not knocking Ace, I like, and own, other stuff of theirs). Ended up rigging my own: I used the Ace frame as the support and spin tester, and a set of digital calipers from an auto parts store to measure deflection. Works just fine.
If I were to buy one now, I'd still go for the lower priced Ace. Or, I would rig a simple home made spin tester/support, and stay with the digital caliper for readings. Probably cost about half as much this way. The 2 lb. weight should be easy to come up with. The Ace would be more convenient, the home made =, I believe, just as accurate, bit a tad slower to use.
Pretty sure there are some threads, if you search, for ideas here.
I've done both between buying them and building them. They all work the same when properly made. It's really only a 26" span, 2lb weight, and a measuring devise to measure deflection.
One of mine over the years was literally two brass hooks in the front of my workbench and a coffee can with picture hanging wire filled with nuts/bolts until my digital scale gave me the right weight. Then I set a dial indicator with stand on the bench and just cross referenced the charts. It cost me $1 at the hardware store for the brass hooks and it worked exactly the same as my store bought one that I use now.
I Ordered a dial indicator and will build one when I get home from my military orders. Thanks guys.
Jim, I believe there is plenty of info on building spine testers on YouTube. Some simple, some complicated.