Questions and Answers
Beginners Questions
Q. Mr. Ciulla, I am one of those people that really knows nothing about car repair, but would love to be able to do small stuff on my own. I am hoping that your web site will help me get there, in fact I just purchased an air filter today and am hoping to successfully complete my first auto repair task, albeit an extremely simple one.
I was reading over your DIY files, and if you don't mind I did have a small question. In the section about changing spark plugs you make a reference to a spark plug gap gauge, and a spark plug socket. Can you explain to me what this gauge is, and if a spark plug socket would be in a regular socket and wrench set?
Have a great day,
ChrisA. Maintaining and repairing your own car can sometimes be intimidating. There are many things that are simple and you can do yourself, and there are some things best left to a professional. I remember my first tune-up as if it were yesterday. Boy, did I screw it up. But I learned from it and got better. The same will happen with you. As your experience builds and you gain confidence, you'll find it's not as intimidating as you first thought.
Remember, even the best mechanic in the world started where you are now.
As for your questions, a spark plug gauge is a special feeler gauge used the measure the gap of a spark plug. They come in a lot of different shapes, but they all have the same sizes of gauges. The ones I like best use a rounded or wire type of feeler. In the center of this picture you can see a feeler gauge with both flat and wire type feeler gauges. The flat blades are for general measurements.
Spark plug sockets come in two sizes, 5/8" and 13/16". They are what's known as deep sockets and usually have a rubber insert to hold the spark plug firmly. These will accommodate both sizes of spark plugs in use today. At the top of this picture you will see the spark plug sockets. Most socket tool sets will have these two sockets included in them. If you are going to buy a set, I would recommend buying a good quality tool like SK tools or Craftsman. SK tools are available at most auto parts stores and Craftsman tools are available at Sears. Both have lifetime warranties and if they should ever break, bring it back and they will give you a new one.
If you need any help, I'll always be here.
