Shop Tip for October

[RustySprockets]

Those fortunate enough to possess a Park TM-1 tensiometer will tell you that the same box also contains a nifty little gauge for quickly determining spoke diameter--a gauge no one sells as a separate item. Consequently, us lesser mortals have been stuck guessing or breaking out a clumsy set of calipers. Not anymore.

I created the image below using Sketchup 3-D modeling software and it should render quite accurately on most printers. Paste it onto a rigid substrate, then carefully cut/grind/file the notches right up to the lines. The resulting measurements may not be perfect, but adequate for a go/no go device. Just an opinion, but I feel the SBC-1 blue ruler ought to come with these same notches already included.

 

[RustyGold]

Maybe add the gauge sizes along with the metric sizes?

Jason

 

[RustySprockets]

I thought about that, after the fact. Shouldn't be difficult to add gauge numbers to the file--I'll do that ASAP. Even the genuine tool doesn't have that feature.

 

[Indyjps]

My spoke ruler has the guage built in. Ill get the brand later.

 

[RustySprockets]

My spoke ruler has the guage built in. Ill get the brand later.

Please. I'd be curious to know. There are a few European models (DT/Swiss?) that have the spoke notch, but may be missing other features. I'd gladly trade my near useless cotter sizer.

 

[Indyjps]

Please. I'd be curious to know. There are a few European models (DT/Swiss?) that have the spoke notch, but may be missing other features. I'd gladly trade my near useless cotter sizer.

I got the ruler from Mr. Rabbit, http://www.mrrabbit.net/wheelsbyfleming.php but googled cnspoke and it looks like you can buy from them.

Check out Mr Rabbit, cool guy, you have to request an account, but good prices and service.

 

[RustySprockets]

Your ruler certainly looks like a quality item. Unfortunately, the spoke must actually pass through it to take the gauge measurement--that won't work on an assembled wheel. In that situation, notches are better.