The correct device to use on a surface plate is the surface gage. Trying to
use a magnetically mounted device on a surface plate is asking for trouble.
Magnetic dial indicator holders aren't designed to be stable in the
non-magnetic condition. Without magnetic attaction they are unstable and
apt to be just plain wobbly. Personally, I am glad that mine is able to be
laid down so's I can put it away in a drawer.

Bob Swinney

"Dave" wrote in message
oups.com...
DeepDiver wrote:
[...]
I'm curious though: why *can't* you keep the "darned magnet turned on all
the time" (except when moving/repositioning the base, of course)? It's
not
as if the magnet will wear out or lose strength. You suggested turning
the
magnet half-on, so it appears as if you are still placing it on a
magnetic
surface. Perhaps you'll find the answer you're seeking if you were to
explain the actual problem that you're having.

- Michael

Ok, I'm sliding it around on my table and it stands up because it is
pressing on the workpiece, then I set it aside and forget that the
contact pressure was keeping it upright, and it falls over. Maybe if I
could turn the magnet "half on" a metal surface would keep it upright
and still allow you to slide it. But not on a wooden bench or surface
plate. The larger dials make balance even worse and can be annoying to
use on a surface plate. Are lead bases perhaps used on surface plates?