Save money and measure your own clearances!

Plasti-Gauge is a tool that is used to measure the clearance between two mating surfaces, such as the bearings and the journals on a crankshaft. To use Plasti-Gauge, follow these steps:

1. Clean the mating surfaces that you want to measure, using a solvent or degreaser to remove any oil or debris.
2. Cut a small piece of Plasti-Gauge from the roll and place it between the mating surfaces. The Plasti-Gauge should be flat and should not be distorted in any way.
3. Carefully assemble the mating surfaces, making sure that the Plasti-Gauge is not damaged or pinched. Tighten the bolts or fasteners to the specified torque, taking care not to over-tighten them.
4. After the mating surfaces are assembled, carefully remove the Plasti-Gauge. The amount of deformation in the Plasti-Gauge will indicate the clearance between the mating surfaces.
5. Use a micrometer or a caliper to measure the width of the deformed Plasti-Gauge. The measurement should be taken at the narrowest point, as this will indicate the minimum clearance between the mating surfaces.
6. Compare the measurement to the manufacturer's specifications to determine if the clearance is within the acceptable range. If the clearance is too small, the mating surfaces may be too tight and may cause excessive wear or damage. If the clearance is too large, the mating surfaces may be too loose and may cause the parts to move or shift.

Overall, Plasti-Gauge is a simple and effective tool for measuring the clearance between mating surfaces. By following these steps, you can use Plasti-Gauge to ensure that your engine components are properly assembled and are within the manufacturer's specifications.