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[machinist] Trav-a-dial replacement Lens (crystal) and Foam Wiper?

From: Lawrence London <lfljvenaura@gmail.com>
To: machinist@lists.ibiblio.org
Subject: [machinist] Trav-a-dial replacement Lens (crystal) and Foam Wiper?
Date: Mon, 18 Dec 2017 00:54:33 -0500

http://www.practicalmachinist.com/vb/general/trav-dial-replacement-lens-crystal-foam-wiper-343862/
Trav-a-dial replacement Lens (crystal) and Foam Wiper?

catalytic
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Trav-a-dial replacement Lens (crystal) and Foam Wiper?

I have seen a few threads here where people have mentioned sourcing replacement lenses (crystals) and/or foam wipers for for trav-a-dials. Buytrak.com sells a few, though one has to buy them in packs of 5, and it would be great to get a cheap one-off the way one can for most dial indicators & watches.

However, there appear to be 4 styles:

-A domed lens for the early 'silver bullet' GB-42 model
-A domed lens for the black 6A model with a knob (maybe same as above?)
-A flat lens with a lip for the black 6A model with a knob
-A flat (larger diameter?) lens for the 7A and 7S newer models with no knob

Can anyone tell me whether they've found a good replacement for one of these models, and which model trav-a-dial it works for?

Also, has anyone found a good type of foam to replace the foam wipers with?

Yea, I know, I should switch to DRO's yada yada... I actually have, except for one machine where I really don't want a big clunky screen in the way.

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12-16-2017, 06:25 PM #2

jancollc
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I have the silver bullet, and some replacement domed lenses. Box says it came from the Clausing Service Center.

I think SWI or Ebay are your choices. You'd prolly come out ahead buying a 5-pack and ebaying off the ones you don't want to keep...

Don't know about wipers- might have to just make them.

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12-16-2017, 06:53 PM #3

Ray Behner
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Years ago I found a certain size lens from oxy/acet torch regulators would fit perfect. Try the weld shop.

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12-16-2017, 07:12 PM #4

catalytic
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Originally Posted by Ray Behner

Years ago I found a certain size lens from oxy/acet torch regulators would fit perfect. Try the weld shop.

Thanks for the reply Ray. I saw your note about this from years ago in an old post, too, which is part of what prompted me to ask here. Do you happen to remember what kind of trav-a-dial this worked for?

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12-16-2017, 08:04 PM #5

rke[pler
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Originally Posted by catalytic

Also, has anyone found a good type of foam to replace the foam wipers with?

Also buytrak:

https://www.buytrak.com/product.php?...5&cat=6&page=3

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12-17-2017, 08:10 AM #6

Ray Behner
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Originally Posted by catalytic

Thanks for the reply Ray. I saw your note about this from years ago in an old post, too, which is part of what prompted me to ask here. Do you happen to remember what kind of trav-a-dial this worked for?

Boy, that's a tuffy. I'd have to say it would be the bigger sized dial. Pretty lame answer I know, but that's been a while ago. Shoot. go to the weld store and give it a try.

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12-17-2017, 09:12 AM #7

mister honey
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Back in August of 2006, I used Hager Enterprises to rebuild two 7S Trav-a-Dials.

You might contact them for parts.

Mike

2006 contact info:

Hager
Enterprises
311 Catamaran Circle
Palacios, TX 77465
P#(361)588-7459
F#(361)588-7674
phager@hughes.net

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12-17-2017, 12:06 PM #8

SBLatheman
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Years ago I bought the remaining inventory of a local machine tool dealer. Included in that inventory were some trav-a-dial parts. I have several of the lenses and foam wipers in the picture. I'm not sure what they are worth , but are for sale.
The lenses are flat, not domed.
Ted
Latheman2@aol.com

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12-17-2017, 12:46 PM #9

daryl bane
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I think Hager no longer repairs but you can still get some parts as well as SWI.

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12-17-2017, 10:56 PM #10

jims
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Think the company that made trav-a-dial is still in business. Look up Southwestern industries inc. if I remember they are near Los Angeles or Gardena Ca. Google SWI trav-a-dial. They still sell parts

[machinist] Trav-a-dial replacement Lens (crystal) and Foam Wiper?, Lawrence London, 12/18/2017