A system to replace or augment the common manual cone-gage method with a method that is highly automated on a CNC machine. Two cone-gage fixtures are employed, getting clamped into the gear and pinion workholding fixtures, respectively. But instead of mechanical contact, dial indicators, or other methods, a precision electronic touch probe is employed that, together with the CNC motion-controlled machine axes, can be used to measure and position gage fixture surfaces.