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Strange Brass Measuring Tool

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Horseradishm…'s loves588 of 606GATELESS GATEAntique Plier Tool Pat'd 1878 (for watch repair?)
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    Posted 7 years ago

    Ozzielass
    (1 item)

    Made of brass. This was purchased at a garage sale in England about 25 years ago, (but is obviously a lot older than that!) It seems to be measuring Compression Expansion, but that is just a guess because the arrow is pointing at "COMn or EXP on the gauge. The measurements go from Zero (in the middle) to 1/16, 1/8, 3/16, 1/4, 5/16, 3/8, 7/16 and 1/2 on either side of the zero. The various rods seem to screw together. There is no manufacturer engraved on the instrument to help me identify the object. The individual pieces are in a timber carry case . Anybody recognise this and let me know what it was used for? Many thanks !

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    Comments

    1. OlofZ OlofZ, 7 years ago
      Interesting! Measuring railroad track with? Just a guess..
    2. UncleRon UncleRon, 7 years ago
      When the pieces are assembled, roughly what is the length of the whole tool?
    3. Ozzielass, 7 years ago
      So SORRY UncleRon,
      I didn't get a notification when you replied to me so only just spotted your question. The minimum length that the gauge can be set at is 350mm (13.78"), but then additional extension rods can be added. Two of the rods are 152mm (6") one is 228mm (9") and a 4th rod 244mm (9.6"). My husband has put it altogether and the total length of the whole tool/item is approx 110cm (43.3") . Hope this helps. My husband thinks this might have something to do with steam engines, but to be perfectly honest, he hasn't got a clue!
    4. jeffhuey1n, 7 years ago
      This appears to be a valve adjustment tool that measures compression and expansion. Most likely it was used on a steam engine, hence the brass construction. Brass wouldn't have the corrosion problem that steel has. Judging from the font and the way the words were abbreviated, I'd guess mid to late 1800's. Maybe newer, I'd need to see it personally in order to fine tooth my guess work.
    5. Ozzielass, 7 years ago
      thanks for taking the time jeffhueyin. It's good to get some feedback that concurs with my husbands thoughts.

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