UPDATE: A used Wilson 3JR

[Bühlmann]

I have a crack at a used Wilson 3JR Rockwell Hardness Tester. It has the weights, it looks to be in good condition with several different anvils, but it is missing the diamond indenter. I am seeing these from metrology outfits for more money than is being asked for the 3JR, or there are some AliExpress ones for under $40. Now I know and generally adhere to the conventional wisdom of "you get what you pay for", but I want to know if anyone has used or knows of any distinct differences in form or function between the chy-nah variants and the official ones. I'm thinking it may mostly be the whole NIST traceability that creates the cost differential, and if that's the case I'm not doing traceable work to support the need for that kind of scrutiny. Is my head on right with this?

 

[DevinT]

A cheap indenter will get you close.

Hoss

 

[Ken H>]

I've used the cheap indenter and can't tell the difference between them. Realize, the HR150 clone that's used by so many has the cheap indenter from factory. Not a problem using them. Do a search on ebay for item #295694719305 and it's $18 shipped from China.

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

I have used both and they are the same. Just use a test block to confirm and calibrate the new indenter.

 

[Bühlmann]

Just picked her up today. Only needed the diamond Brale I asked about above, and I guess the telescoping jackscrew shroud if I decide I care/can find one cheap. Gets within 1 HRC to the included standard as is, but I’m hoping a thorough breakdown, cleaning, oil change & proper re-setup I can get it better than that. I was kinda shocked it worked at all and pretty pleased it operates as accurately as it does as is. Did I do okay for $200?







If anyone has tips, resources, or any useful information on maintenance or operation please share!

 

[A.McPherson]

200 bones?! Yeah you scored!

 

[Ken H>]

$200? Why can't I ever find deals like that?

 

[Bühlmann]

Is there a way to find the year of manufacture on these? Serial # 3JR 549

 

[Bühlmann]

$200? Why can't I ever find deals like that?

Look up “HGR Industrial Surplus”. They have a warehouse in Birmingham. If you are ever up that way it’s worth a poke around.

 

[Ken H>]

I didn't realize they had a warehouse in B'ham, AL. That would be an interesting place to spend half a day looking around.

 

[Bühlmann]

It is. I did exactly that. Tons & tons of stuff to drool over, wonder about, & try to figure out. I almost bought a 4-head drilling station…..just because I was fascinated with it!