Shop Talk #21, Making a Dial Indicator Adapter From a Spark Plug --- Video

I review and demonstrate making a dial indicator holder from a spark plug for setting the ignition timing on two stroke engine.

[@bdubya63]

I've been trying to make one of these for a while now, but could not figure out how to remove the porcelain. Cut the ring off like you said and sure enough, the porcelain shaft just fell out. I don't have a mill or a lathe, but I was able to drill and tap a hole for a set screw and was lucky enough to find a spacer in a junk drawer that worked well enough for an insert. Thank you for posting this video. It really helped me figure this out.

[@kwrightway]

Excellent, glad the video was helpful to you. Thanks for the comment...

[@CarlosGarcia-ls4hn]

Sir, with that copper sleeve, does it change the readings on the dial, or does not matter? How do you compensate for that?

[@kwrightway]

The copper sleeve has no affect on the dial indicator is zeroed out before using.

[@theonebrewster]

You going to post a video of setting the timing on the YL1?

[@kwrightway]

That's my intention, though it will be a little while before it's posted. I haven't shot the video yet, but it's in the planning stage.

[@greeshmamthevally]

size of that dial indicator

[@kwrightway]

The indicator I use is a standard 2 inch unit, that measures in .001 inch... very common. Just about any indicator could be used, but if anything, I'd go smaller in size for convienece in tight space.

[@patrickmartin2826]

Sorry but is there a video of the installation of the heads and the rings? thanks.

[@kwrightway]

Yes Casey, there is a video coming of installing the entire top end. It's in queue right now, waiting it's turn. I shoot video a number of weeks in advance of publication to allow for sourcing parts and video editing.

[@patrickmartin2826]

Great thanks

[@kwrightway]

@@patrickmartin2826 You're welcome...