How to use a wheel gauge

Shop for Marking Out Gauges

Step 1 – Release fence

A basic wheel gauge works in much the same way as a wooden cutting gauge. Start by turning the thumb screw on the top of the fence anti-clockwise to release it.

Step 2 – Set fence

Next, move the fence along the stem until it is in the position required. Turn the thumb screw clockwise to secure it in place.

Step 3 – Mark wood

Unlike other marking gauges, the wheel gauge does not need to be tilted when marking. Simply pull the tool along the workpiece, holding the stem, to mark the wood.

Micro-adjust wheel gauge

Step 1 – Release nut and collet

Unscrew the collet and nut by turning the collet clockwise and the nut anti-clockwise.

Step 2 – Position collet

Holding the fence still, position the collet by turning it so that there is around a 3mm (0.1″) gap between the fence and collet.

Step 3 – Position fence

Loosen the thumb screw, by turning it clockwise, and slide the stem through the collet and fence to the desired position.

Step 4 – Position tool on workpiece

Set the gauge up on the workpiece with the fence butted up against the edge of the wood.

Step 5 – Make fine adjustments

If any slight adjustments need to be made now that the tool is in position, this can now be done up to 5mm (0.19″) either way. Slightly loosen the thumb screw and turn the collet to adjust. One full rotation of the collet moves the blade by 0.8mm (0.03″). Tighten the thumb screw to lock the fence in the new position.