How to: Manually Pick Up a Bore or a Hole with an Indicator – Haas Automation Tip of the Day

In today’s episode, Mark covers another topic that every machinist – whether a beginner or an experienced pro – can benefit from: Using an indicator to manually locate a hole. It’s not as simple as it sounds. Watch as Mark walks through a step-by-step demonstration, using various techniques and several different styles of indicator!

If you enjoyed this video, please hit the like button and share it with a friend who’ll find it helpful . . . and thanks!

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[johnvine]

My heart actually jumped when the indicator got destroyed!

[madswinebbq]

I actually appreciate that you gave no warning to the crash because in real life Machining when you crash there is no warning!!

[TheSMPeto]

TIP (for newbies): Initially centering the point of the indicator can be relatively complicated if the holding arm is at all offset and/or the indicator is twisted. It's rarely as quick as the video makes it seem, hence the reason he says, "Now, if this takes a little bit of time..."

In my experience it's not worth the time and can be a total pain! Instead and before using your indicator, put something round into your chuck (preferably with a point) to locate the hole by eye. Personally I use a 3/8" drill blank, with a 45 degree point ground onto the end, but anything will work (chamfer tool, dowel pin, etc.).. Will get you VERY close before indicating, trust me!

[David-hmic]

Your videos ROCK. I have no expectation of ever running CNC machines because virtually everything I do is a one-off. The benefit is that the basic challenges between manual and CNC machining are identical. Every successful project starts with a good reference point and that is, IMO, one of the Haas Automation video strengths.

[arabiccola]

Happy New Year! and to that indicator that was crushed in the making of this video, it was well worth it!

[thiagocruzy]

Just learnt a years worth of information in 7 minutes. Love love love this channel

[MikeTimokhin]

This is the best explanation so far on youtube. I've watched many. You guys rock!

[rickys]

This dudes a legend so greatful for every upload makes things so simple

[BartZudell]

I don't have a Haas but this was EXACTLY what I was looking for. No hype just good info. THANKS!

[Moncriefs]

i dont know shit about machining but i sat and watched this entire video for some reason

[craigburton]

thank you Mark, and Haas Automatons for the very helpful tip of the day videos. I watch every chance I get.

[tj]

I love these tip of the day vids, keep up the good work guys 👍

[raymendez]

That crash made me jump! Goodness, that really hurts!

[spkrman]

Loved the cracked mirror. Great video guys. It is because of these videos i bought a Haas.

[yianni]

Thank you so much for these videos Haas! Love Mark!

[ThePointlessBox_]

that indicator crash tore out a piece of my soul
holy shit

[dragonflyfab]

Mark, you are brutal! Not even a moment of silence for the dead indicator!

[charrontheboatman]

HI all and Happy New Year! These CNC Videos are of great help to me even though I am not yet proficient enough of a machinist to be working in CNC Thanks for keeping up with the simple stuff!

[stjohnsriverrat]

Excellent video, Simple and straight forward.

[Deezputts]

Thanks, great refresher to look at from time to time.. and yes the indicator crash had me in stitches too