Source for shim stock

MyLilMule

MyLilMule

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I need to add a shim to the gib of a machine I am working on getting running. It's a bit of a band-aide for sure, since the gib should probably remade or at least ground/scraped and then shimmed. But I don't have the means or capability to do such. So shimming becomes my next best option.

But I only need a 1" x 24" piece that's .013" thick. I can get bronze shim stock from McMaster, but it's $60 for a 6" x 50" roll. Way more than I need. Way more than I would ever use. Are there other options for this stuff? I've seen 12" strips here and there, but I really would prefer it be the full 24" length rather than trying to make two strips work. That seems wrong.

Any help would be much appreciated.
 
I checked a couple places online, but found nothing useful.
Sorry and good luck.

Brian
 
MyLilMule said:
I need to add a shim to the gib of a machine I am working on getting running. It's a bit of a band-aide for sure, since the gib should probably remade or at least ground/scraped and then shimmed. But I don't have the means or capability to do such. So shimming becomes my next best option.

But I only need a 1" x 24" piece that's .013" thick. I can get bronze shim stock from McMaster, but it's $60 for a 6" x 50" roll. Way more than I need. Way more than I would ever use. Are there other options for this stuff? I've seen 12" strips here and there, but I really would prefer it be the full 24" length rather than trying to make two strips work. That seems wrong.

Any help would be much appreciated.
Click to expand...
Check local sheet metal shops, they may have 28 or 30 ga stock they can shear to width for you.
 
What about three layers of shim tape?

www.mcmaster.com

McMaster-Carr

McMaster-Carr is the complete source for your plant with over 595,000 products. 98% of products ordered ship from stock and deliver same or next day.
www.mcmaster.com www.mcmaster.com
 
jwmelvin said:
What about three layers of shim tape?

www.mcmaster.com

McMaster-Carr

McMaster-Carr is the complete source for your plant with over 595,000 products. 98% of products ordered ship from stock and deliver same or next day.
www.mcmaster.com www.mcmaster.com
Click to expand...
I didn't even know this exists. Interesting idea.
ChazzC said:
Check local sheet metal shops, they may have 28 or 30 ga stock they can shear to width for you.
Click to expand...
29 gauge would be the closest thickness. I'll have to see if there are any shops around me.
 
ShagDog said:
Might try KBC Tools and Machinery.
Click to expand...
EDIT: My first search was horrible. I went back and looked again and can get .0135" steel shim stock at a much more reasonable price. I'll have to see what shipping is going to cost.
Alcap said:
Can aluminum be used ? Home Depot has .011 aluminum flashing ? Maybe others sell even closer to your size . https://www.homedepot.com/p/Gibralt...luminum-Roll-Valley-Flashing-RV625A/202092843
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.011 wouldn't be enough of a shim. I really need .013. Anything smaller and the gib is too far out the other end. Anything bigger and too far out the large end. This is the first time I have seen a gib that is actually LONGER than the place it sits in, and it appears to be original to the machine as it has the same serial number stamped in it.
If I "center" the gib, these photos show the two side and the notches for the gib adjusting screws.

IMG_9528.jpeg
IMG_9529.jpeg
 
I'm leaning toward trying the .012" shim stock and letting the gib go in further. I'd have to extend the notch for the gib screw on the right end, but that shouldn't be an issue. I'm also thinking about cutting it down to make it shorter - thoughts? My lack of experience in these things is making me ask a lot of questions. :)
 
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