What type of indicator is specifically designed for precise measurement of small distances?

The dial test indicator is specifically designed for precise measurement of small distances, making it essential for tasks that require high accuracy and detail, such as aligning and measuring components in machinery and engines. It consists of a needle that moves along a dial face, allowing users to read minute changes in distance with great precision. This capability is crucial in small engine technology, where even minor discrepancies can impact performance and operation.

In contrast, a torque wrench measures the amount of torque being applied to a fastener, which is not directly relevant to measuring small distances. A tachometer, on the other hand, measures the rotation speed of a shaft or disk, providing information essential for engine performance but not for distance measurement. Lastly, a surface plate serves as a stable reference surface for measuring and inspecting the flatness and geometry of objects, but it does not provide the precise measurement capabilities found in a dial test indicator.