"Why Inclinometers Are Cool And Which Ones To Buy"

[Max]

https://jalopnik.com/why-inclinometers-are-cool-and-which-ones-to-buy-1842399646

[open_circuit]

I've been using the "little blue single ball" version on my dash for a couple years.

[Jim]

EDIT: I don't wish my post to be a wet blanket - as mentioned - they're good conversation starters / fun things

My Lev-O-Gauges are good conversation starters but are essentially useless as I don't know what number is near a danger zone. I hope to never find out.

The left-right tilt/flop gauge (center of dash) has lost fluid over the years.



I have used the fore-aft gauge for "how steep is this grade" measurement:

http://www.jimwilliamson.net/automobile/2016-08-13--trail--red-cone--radical-hill--saints-john/img_6938.jpg


Heading down pitch #3. This captured the most attention.

The Lev-O-Gage shows 16 or 17 degrees of slope.

(http://www.jimwilliamson.net/automobile/2016-08-13--trail--red-cone--radical-hill--saints-john/img_6938.jpg)

[Spieg]

My Lev-O-Gauges are good conversation starters but are essentially useless as I don't know what number is near a danger zone. I hope to never find out.

The left-right tilt/flop gauge (center of dash) has lost fluid over the years.


Agreed, I have flopped before but certainly wasn't looking at the gauge at the time to note what the tipping point was (my attention was demanded elsewhere). They do however provide some sense of security when used as "I've been more tilted than this and been okay".

[speedkills]

I run an inclinometer and have had my center of mass calculated to know my rollover angles. 3R in Denver (https://3rauto.com/) will measure your center of mass and calculate your rollover angles for an hour of labor, or they can use a forklift and some ropes to truly check the rollover angles if you prefer. Empty in it's current state my Disco weighs 7k and will rollover at 45 degrees with the suspension in off-road height. 66 degrees backward, 62" forward.

[Jim]

For an hour of labor (~$100???) I'd go for it as I would like to _know_ the limits. I'd go for a physical, rope insured, documentation. I'd load it with camping gear (higher COG) for the test.

I'd then be able to yellow / red tag the inclinometers.

Thanks for the info.

[open_circuit]

For an hour of labor (~$100???) I'd go for it as I would like to _know_ the limits. I'd go for a physical, rope insured, documentation. I'd load it with camping gear (higher COG) for the test.

I'd then be able to yellow / red tag the inclinometers.

Thanks for the info.

I'll help you push your Jeep sideways down a hill for free. :lmao:

That is a neat service. I'm curious what the hour of labor runs. I've maxed out my inclinometer going directly up and down some inclines in Moab without rolling, so I guess I need a better inclinometer before I pay someone to help me calibrate it.

[Jim]

I'll help you push your Jeep sideways down a hill for free.

Why is it this video comes to mind when you say that... ;-)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IcHrkhHXoHo

I'm more concerned with side flops than front/rear endo's. Side hills / shelf roads, where a trail narrows and one puts high side wheels higher leading to more down slope lean - how much lean is too much???? As-is, I believe my pucker factor kicks in well before physical tippage happens - but I'd like to _know_ (do the test and document) while being safe.

[FINOCJ]

my inclinometer = wife riding shotgun.....and it comes with sound warnings for yellow, red and divorce readings so I don't have to distract my eyes from driving.

[Jim]

LOL - had to read that twice - which of the inclinometers listed has an "audio alert option"?! LOL

[speedkills]

my inclinometer = wife riding shotgun.....and it comes with sound warnings for yellow, red and divorce readings so I don't have to distract my eyes from driving.

Your inclinometer tends to get out when needed most, a backup can't hurt.