Plastigauge accuracy?

[polkat]

Is Plastiguage accurate enough for someone without good measuring tools? I have a slider type micrometer, but it's worn and old, and I can measure something with it three times and get three slightly different readings. Looking to measure rod and main clearance on a 440. Can I trust what Plastiguage tells me?

 

[07charger67]

I would assume so, engine builders use it. I think they put the bearings in then put the right torque on the cap bolts then take it apart and see how much it smashed and thats the tolerance. I think packages even come with a measuring device.

 

[Cranky]

Just make sure it's fresh. I've been told that it doesn't make a difference but I've found that to be untrue. What's a slider type micrometer? Dail calipers?