Affordable spine tester or build?

[razorsharptokill]

Looking at spine testers and WOW, they are pricey. Anyone have any plans for a DIY build? I wouldn't mind buying one but I think I can build a simple one.

[Overspined]

I think mine was $100. Worth it

[slowbowjoe]

I had a previously owned, old Ace 101; I didn't bond with it (not knocking Ace, I like, and own, other stuff of theirs). Ended up rigging my own: I used the Ace frame as the support and spin tester, and a set of digital calipers from an auto parts store to measure deflection. Works just fine.

If I were to buy one now, I'd still go for the lower priced Ace. Or, I would rig a simple home made spin tester/support, and stay with the digital caliper for readings. Probably cost about half as much this way. The 2 lb. weight should be easy to come up with. The Ace would be more convenient, the home made =, I believe, just as accurate, bit a tad slower to use.

Pretty sure there are some threads, if you search, for ideas here.

[Gdpolk]

I've done both between buying them and building them.  They all work the same when properly made.  It's really only a 26" span, 2lb weight, and a measuring devise to measure deflection. 

One of mine over the years was literally two brass hooks in the front of my workbench and a coffee can with picture hanging wire filled with nuts/bolts until my digital scale gave me the right weight.  Then I set a dial indicator with stand on the bench and just cross referenced the charts.  It cost me $1 at the hardware store for the brass hooks and it worked exactly the same as my store bought one that I use now.

[razorsharptokill]

I Ordered a dial indicator and will build one when I get home from my military orders. Thanks guys.

[Pat B]

Jim, I believe there is plenty of info on building spine testers on YouTube. Some simple, some complicated.