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How to Adapt a Striding Level to an Old Transit

Transit is the common name for a simple theodolite with a telescope that moves 180 degrees on its axis. Transits have less precise magnification and measuring units than theodolites with features such as scale magnification and micrometers. These devices are often found on construction sites since they are used to measure an angle on the horizon or vertical plane. As the name implies, the striding level helps obtain a level line of sight for the transits and is instrumental for older models that lack the electronic measuring systems used in modern theodolites.

Things You'll Need

Transit tripod

Instructions

- 1
  Set the transit on a level, steady surface using a tripod or the base of the instrument.
- 2
  Position the level, or telescope of the transit toward the line of sight you prefer using its plate level and clamp it so it is steady. Align the axis of the transit with a leveling screw.
- 3
  Position the feet of the striding level using the leveling screws so it is balanced without support. Arrange the striding level so that the bubble in the level casing rests in the middle of the tube.
- 4
  Check that the position is level by lifting the striding level and rotating it on the horizontal axis, then look at the bubble to make sure it is in the middle of the tube. Adjust the position of the leveling screws if the bubble is not centered.
- 5
  Repeat Steps Three and Four until the striding level bubble is centered.

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