Cheap Thin Parallels

[jjr2001]

Two sets of parallels from one. Easy enough to cut them to fit any pair of vises that total less than 6" wide.
In my case I have a set that is 2.5" long and a set that is 3.35" long. Both sets will extend past the jaws of their intended vise.
Three long un-cut parallels were not cut since they are too high for either vise. Nice not to have all that extra length stick out of the vise.

Cheers, JR

[DIYer]

Thanks jjr2001! We've added your Thin Parallels to our Vises category,
as well as to your builder page: jjr2001's Homemade Tools. Your receipt:

Thin Parallels by jjr2001

tags: vise

[ChrisB257]

Looks like a great idea but - what method did you use to cut them and, did you mill the reduced size pieces or grind to ensure parallelism?

[jjr2001]

Thanks Chris, I have watched and enjoyed many of your videos on Youtube. Great work and thanks for recording them.

I tried not to get them too hot and used an abrasive wheel of about 1/8" thick and 3 inches in diameter.
Cleaned up the edges on the 8" disc sander.
I have not measured them for any changes at this time and don't really expect to see much distortion.
Of course if they are really twisted I will find out soon!

Cheers, JR

[ChrisB257]

Thanks for reply - I guess my main concern was maintaining parallelism but love the idea - my 4" mill vice always has over hanging parallels!

[Hemi]

This is GREAT! I myself have the issue with Parallels too, I got seriously MINI vices for my Mill and being so the full size Parallels are an issue with the size of my machine (2 Unimats) so..... I'm trying to get some Parallels no longer then 3 inches, and as mentioned MOST of a full size set is nearly useless t me due to their sizes..... So.... This posting is GREAT as a guide, and as well as some inspiration to make some of my own!

[Ed Weldon]

'bout time you guys figured this one out. Use an even thinner cutoff wheel for less heat. Go slow and try not to get the metal up to blue. If you use an air grinder and little water coolant it won't hurt. Wear gloves and a face shield.
Now let's do some real creative thinking. What do you do with the leftover 6" long spacers that are too thick for your vise? They are hardened steel, pretty accurately ground flat and even thickness and you already have a way to cut them albeit without a lot of accuracy.