I need to measure an axle for an e-clip, but the clip is supposed to slide into a very narrow groove on the shaft. I'd say finger-nail width. The calipers I have don't go that narrow. Does anyone have a recommendation for calipers that can fit into a tight space, and have very narrow teeth?

Since the clip is springy, you only have to get "close" with your measurement. If you use a thin bit of wood -- like a flat toothpick -- and place it in the bottom of the groove, then mark the depth with a sharp knife (not a pencil or pen), you can then measure that with your calipers. Double the depth and subtract from the diameter, and you'll have your target e-clip minor diameter.

Probably a dozen other ways to measure it, too, depending on what you have to work with.

You can buy assortments of e-clips at places like Harbor Freight. They also sell calipers with knife-edge jaws that should get down in the groove.

Chip

Since e clips come in standard sizes, I suspect that you could guesstimate close enough and obtain perhaps a couple of sizes to try. Check the sizes listed in this assortment:

http://www.amazon.com/ATD-351-300-Piece-E-Clip-Assortment/dp/B000M5ZV5M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1453659533&sr=8-1&keywords=e+clips

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jr

. Check the sizes listed in this assortment: jr

I actually bought that package awhile ago (Or I at least believe it was that one) and found that the smallest one was two small, but the next one up was too big.

Metric perhaps?

http://www.amazon.com/Piece-Stainless-Circlip-Retaining-Assortment/dp/B00ZUTISAU/ref=pd_sbs_263_3?ie=UTF8&dpID=516JBMgqxRL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR146%2C160_&refRID=1FNYD8ZZ2DVCQBMRQTB6

Or in between size, such as 3/32?

http://www.amazon.com/Pico-6210C-E-Clip-Retainers-Package/dp/B00030CZVE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1453683328&sr=8-1&keywords=3%2F32+e+clip

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jr

This may sound a bit asinine, but I've been known to crush larger ones down to fit, and bend smaller ones open to fit....Crude but effective.

This may sound a bit asinine, but I've been known to crush larger ones down to fit, and bend smaller ones open to fit....Crude but effective.
:o I must admit that I have done that as well.

jr

Do they make calipers specifically to fit smaller spaces? I've heard the term "blade calipers" before, would those work?

I really don't want to drop money guessing on the size - I'd rather pay extra now to get the tool I need so I'll have it in the future.

Metric perhaps?

Definitely SAE. Made by RCA sometime between 1959 and 1960 in USA.

Or in between size, such as 3/32?

That's what I figure, yes, but that leaves a huge range of what size it could be.

This may sound a bit asinine, but I've been known to crush larger ones down to fit, and bend smaller ones open to fit....Crude but effective.

I actually did do that for awhile, and it seemed to work. But I'm being perfectionist on this one because, near as I can tell, not a lot of these were made, so I'm trying to make sure the repairs I do will hold up long term.

It would probably be quicker to grind one to fit, starting with the closest too-small size. Dremel grinder with pointy stone wheel, and the part in a real vise, or vise-grip pliers. No hand-held. Contour three lobes and Bob's your uncle.

Since they're hard, springy steel, drilling won't do the job.

Chip