Using Plastic Gauge

First.
Are you supposed to/ can you use each piece more than once ?

Second
My understanding is that you wrap the stuff around the bearing surface and install the bearing to the proper torque spec, then disasemble and check against the package for clearence. Is it as simple as this ? Are you suppose to use it on both sides of the groves in the bearings ? Any tips ?

Finally,
The place wants to charge 3.50 CDN ( about 2.25 US) for each piece, is that about right ?

Thanks all
Brian.

Brian.

1) No. Once the plastigage has been crushed, you will lose dimensional accuracy. Use a new piece each time.

2) Lay the plastigage crosswise on the bearing surface. Torque the bolts to spec then remove the bearing caps. You can ignore the uncrushed part in the center at the oil groove. You only use short lengths of plastigage this way. Note: To get an accurate measurement, do not allow the weight of the crankshaft or connecting rod to help crush the plastigage. They will register a tighter clearance when you compare the marks on the paper. If measuring the main bearings on a crankshaft in the block still in the frame, jack the crankshaft up against the upper part of the bearing before assembling the cap.

3) Price sounds about right. One piece should do an entire 4-cylinder engine provided you aren't modifying your insert fits..