I have a lufkin 20x level that is so far out of calibration I can't seem to get it adjusted properl;ey.
What is the start from scratch procedure?
I assume you are talking about a bubble level. If so, you should be able to remove the cover over the bubble and find adjusting screws used to calibrate the level. Make sure the bottom surface is free of nicks and rust and is not twisted or bowed. To test for bow, after you have removed any nicks or rust, set the level on a smooth flat surface. Try to " spin " the level gently from one end. If it rotates about the center of the level it is bowed with the center high. If the center is high enough to rock the level you will never get it adjusted until you correct that condition. If it rotates about the end of the level it is bowed with the center low. If your surface is reasonably flat you can rub the level and look for shiney spots on the bottom. If it worn badly have the bottom resurfaced. If it is reasonably flat on the bottom, find a smooth, flat surface that you think is reasonable level. Set the level on the surface and mark its position. Take note of the bubble position, even if it all the way to one side. Reverse the level position 180 degrees and note the position of the bubble again. Make an adjustment to move the bubble half of the difference between the two readings and repeat the notations of the bubble and reverse position bubble. Continue until you obtain the same bubble reading in each position. If you don't get a final reading that is on the scale of the level, find a surface that is more level and try again. As long as the surface is level within the range of the level scale you should be able to adjust it until you get the same reading in each position. (If the surface is not level within the range of the level scale you can't complete the calabration.) The final reading should then be the amount the surface is out of level.
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