Replacement Vial for precision level

[Me.Participant @me]

I would like to replace the vial in my precision machinist level – or to put it another way – I would like to replace the paper backer behind the vial on my precision machinist level, it has become mottled and reading the graduations on the vial is hard.

Ive seen how they come apart on Youtube videos and don't belive I could take mine apart without breaking the vial.

Can someone suggest a supplier of the vials in the UK – i did a quick search but it comes up with US or China.

[Me.Participant @me]

[Brian GParticipant @briang]

It rather depends on whose level it is, Zoro/Kennedy have vials for Moore and Wright Link to Zoro and CES mention vials for their DIY level, but don't list them on their site. If you have a Starrett 98 series, it might be worth contacting Starrett UK?

Brian G

[Clive HartlandParticipant @clivehartland94829]

Me. How is the vial held in place, plaster or glue?

If plaster soak in water and then gently pick away at the plaster till the vial is free.

When replacing, make a square of paper the same size as you took out and fold it in reducing concertina fashion.

Slide the paper and vial back in place and then use plaster to reseal.

One proviso, the vial tube usually has a dimple sticking out where it was sealed, keep that clear of plaster.

[SandgrounderParticipant @sandgrounder]

When I was at work many years ago we bought them off,

https://www.leveldevelopments.com/products/vials/

John

[John HaineParticipant @johnhaine32865]

I'm sure there was an MEW article on making precision levels some time back.

[mgnbukParticipant @mgnbuk]

Starrett machinist levels are 0.42mm/metre/divison sensitivity. Starrett do (or did) sell replacement vial assemblies – I have one at home & could get the part number off the box if that would help.

Level Developments sell replacement precision vials – those in the link are a lot more sensitive than a machinists level & would be more typical of precision machine levels. They have a lot more options on the website, though.

Ebay vials – the 45" option here is 0.222mm/meter/division, so better sensitivity than a machinist level but not as sensitive as a precision level. Around £18 inc Vat delivered.

Nigel B.

[Me.Participant @me]

As always an instant reply with exactly the information needed. Many thanks.

As the level is pretty old I would assume it is held together with plaster as Clive suggested – I'll give that a go first, shame to ruin the original vial for the sake of a dirty piece of paper.

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