What size socket to remove spark plug?
The size of the socket needed to remove a spark plug typically ranges from 5/8 inch to 13/16 inch, depending on the vehicle and engine type. The most common spark plug socket size is 5/8 inch, but it's important to consult your vehicle's service manual or check the spark plug itself to determine the correct socket size.
Determining the Correct Spark Plug Socket Size
Spark plugs come in a variety of sizes, and the socket needed to remove them can vary depending on the vehicle and engine. Here are some tips to help you determine the correct socket size:
- Check the spark plug: The spark plug itself will often have the size stamped on the hex-shaped base, such as "5/8" or "14mm".
- Consult the service manual: Your vehicle's service manual will specify the correct spark plug size and the corresponding socket size needed to remove it.
- Measure the spark plug: If you don't have access to the service manual, you can measure the diameter of the spark plug's hex-shaped base using a ruler or caliper. Common sizes are 5/8 inch, 13/16 inch, and 14mm.
Once you've determined the correct socket size, make sure to use a spark plug socket, which has a deeper well to accommodate the spark plug's insulator and prevent damage.
Removing the Spark Plug
With the correct socket size in hand, follow these steps to safely remove the spark plug:
- Disconnect the spark plug wire: Gently pull the spark plug wire off the top of the spark plug to avoid damaging the wire or the spark plug.
- Insert the spark plug socket: Carefully insert the spark plug socket over the spark plug, making sure it's fully seated.
- Loosen the spark plug: Use a ratchet or breaker bar to slowly and carefully loosen the spark plug, turning it counterclockwise.
- Remove the spark plug: Once the spark plug is loosened, you can remove it by hand, taking care not to cross-thread it.
Remember to always work safely and follow the manufacturer's instructions when servicing your vehicle's spark plugs.
Do I need a special socket to remove spark plugs?
Though you can technically use any socket of the right size, we recommend using the kind specifically made to pair with spark plugs. These special sockets contain rubber isolators inside intended to absorb any possible vibration within and protect the glass featured along the spark plug.
What tool do I use to remove a spark plug?
A spark plug socket
To remove spark plugs, you need a spark plug removal tool that grabs and twists the spark plugs inside your vehicle's engine. Because spark plugs can be in awkward positions, you may also need an extension for your spark plug socket.
Why is my spark plug not unscrewing?
The carbon can build up around the tip of the spark plug inside the cylinder and will prevent you from removing it. Simply put, the spark plug can become seized. Apart from that, spark plugs can also seize due to corrosion. Whilst on modern engines there is a reduced chance of this happening it can still happen.
What size socket extension for spark plugs?
The most common spark plug socket sizes are the 5/8 inch and 13/16 inch sockets. There are other sizes available and each has its own specific applications.
How to pull a spark plug out?
After the wire or coil is removed, use your torque wrench with the spark plug socket to remove the spark plug. Place the socket around the spark plug and turn the socket counterclockwise. The spark plug should unscrew easily.
Can you use a normal socket on a spark plug?
Using the wrong size or a standard size spark plug socket on a metric spark plug or vice versa is likely to damage the spark plug. And could make it difficult to remove.
What is the most common spark plug size?
While 5/8" (16mm) and 13/16" are the two most common plug hex sizes, plugs can have a hex as small as 8mm or larger than 1". If you're a tuner or engine builder in search of the perfect spark plug for your current project, pay special attention to the hex size required.
What can I use if I don't have a spark plug socket?
Electrode you can reach down. Inside put it on the put the rubber hose on the spark. Plug insulator and you can now pull the spark plug. Out same thing when you go to put a new spark plug.
What size socket to take off a spark plug?
Most spark plugs require a 5/8" (16mm) size spark plug socket. This refers to the size of the flats on the spark plug that are in contact with the socket.
What is the hex size on a spark plug?
Identifying NGK Spark Plugs
| Letter | Thread | Hex |
|---|---|---|
| A | 18mm | 25.4mm |
| B | 14mm | 20.8mm |
| C | 10mm | 16.0mm |
| D | 12mm | 18.0mm |
