What is the purpose of using spacers when measuring side rails and sills?

The purpose of using spacers when measuring side rails and sills is to ensure consistent contact with the reference line. This technique helps achieve accuracy by maintaining a uniform distance between the measuring tool and the object being assessed. When spacers are used, they create a stable point of reference that reduces variability in measurements, allowing for more precise alignment with the design specifications. This is crucial in the context of assessing the structural integrity of dry van trailers, where even small discrepancies can lead to significant issues in functionality and safety.

Other methods of measuring may not provide the same level of consistency, leading to potential errors. This makes the use of spacers an important practice in ensuring reliable data collection during inspections and assessments. By maintaining consistent contact with the reference line, the measurement process becomes standardized and repeatable, which is vital for performance evaluations and maintenance protocols.