I think what you need to make the setup and checking easier is a horizontal dial test indicator. Here is an example on amazon. They work a lot better to check backlash on rear axles as well.

https://www.amazon.com/Supermotorparts-Precision-Indicator-Reading-0-15-0/dp/B07YYV2H6V/ref=sr_1_7_sspa?crid=19FVDA6GVWJ2I&keywords=horizontal+dial+test+indicator&qid=1659360078&s=industrial&sprefix=horizontal+dial+test+indicator%2Cindustrial%2C125&sr=1-7-spons&psc=1&smid=A2ZOOY1CGCMNB6&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUFEQklQNUFWT1FEWUkmZW5jcnlwdGVkSWQ9QTA2NDExNTQyUk1GWjBGVlU0T1YmZW5jcnlwdGVkQWRJZD1BMDI5NDg4NDNWMFdDVFZKV0QxNEwmd2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9tdGYmYWN0aW9uPWNsaWNrUmVkaXJlY3QmZG9Ob3RMb2dDbGljaz10cnVl