Let's face it, there are a ton of different sockets out there nowadays and figuring out which one to use can be a bit overwhelming.
Even when it comes to more specialized sockets like spark plug sockets, there are many choices out there and it leaves a lot of people wondering which one to use...
Right?
This article is going to go in depth on some of the different sized spark plug sockets, what some of the different features are, how much they are, what sets are available and much more. Let's dive right in...
What Is A Spark Plug Socket, Anyways?
A spark plug socket is a special type of socket that is made specifically for removing and installing spark plugs without damaging them.
Spark plugs are delicate and sensitive and require a special approach and tool when installing and removing them.
Spark plug sockets are specifically designed to "cradle" the spark plug, while keeping a firm grip so you can install or remove them.
Some have rubber inserts and others use magnets to hold the spark plug in place, making the job of installing or removing them much easier.
Do I Need To Use A Spark Plug Socket?
This is a pretty easy question to answer... no you don't need a spark plug socket to remove and install spark plugs.
A deep socket in the correct size will work in most cases, if enough patience is used and maybe some pliers to go along with the socket.
I do recommend using a spark plug socket in most cases though because it can be the difference of the job taking 20 minutes or 2+ hours, just by having the correct tool for the job.
Remember, the sockets are designed to hold the spark plugs in place (so it doesn't fall out) when removing and installing them. It also protects the insulating piece on the outside of the plug too, which can break.
How Do Spark Plug Sockets Work?
Like I stated in the above paragraphs, spark plug sockets "cradle" the spark plug so it will not get damaged. A traditional socket would not hold the spark plug snug enough and it would fall out upon installation or removal, which could cause damage to the spark plug itself.
FYI!
Some vehicles (nowadays and in the past) have the spark plugs positioned deep down inside of the block and the only way to get the spark plug all the way down there and stay connected to the socket is by using a spark plug socket.
The Two Different Types Of Spark Plug Sockets Out There...
There are two main types of sockets that you can choose from, basically and they will work equally as well, so don't think that one has an advantage over the other, it is more of a "personal preference" type of thing for most people.
The two main types of spark plug sockets are ones that use a magnet to hold the spark plug in place and ones that use a rubber boot instead. They look very similar (the exact same, in fact) and serve the same purpose overall.
What Are The Different Spark Plug Sizes?
Spark plugs do come in different sizes and, as you can imagine, they also have different sized spark plug sockets too.
There are standard sizes when it comes to most spark plugs but these usually refer to the most common sizes, which are 5/8" and 13/16".
There are other sizes that are available too which are 3/4", 14 mm and 18mm, all of which are sometimes used as well. One thing to remember is that there are different sizes for different spark plugs.
You will have to figure out which size you have before buying one but they will all usually be a deep socket.
Spark Plug Sockets, Extensions And Swivels...
We have been talking about the spark plug sockets only but there are a few things that you need to consider when looking at spark plug sockets and that is whether or not you are going to need an extension and a universal (swivel) joint to go along with that socket.
Extensions & Swivels: Some spark plugs are located deep inside the engine bay, which would require an extension to be used in most cases.
Also, if there are a lot of obstacles in the way, you may also need a universal joint attached too.
Remember that the type of engine will dictate how long the extension needs to be and some spark plugs (in the same engine) may require different extension lengths in order to get to certain spark plugs easier.
Almost all spark plugs these days will require a swivel or universal joint of some kind to reach the tight spots in the engine and will be somewhat of a "standard" feature to look for.
All-In-One Tools: Some spark plug sockets are sold with an extension and a universal joint attached to the socket itself, making it a permanent tool that will work flawlessly in certain circumstances.
I have one of these that works great for one of my cars and was actually made specifically for this type of car, making things very easy.
What About Spark Plug Socket Sets?
Now most people will usually only need one or two spark plug sockets for their vehicles, like myself but there are some people who prefer to have different sizes on hand because they have a lot of vehicles, or work on a lot of vehicles or have small engines that need servicing, etc.
Whatever the case, they are probably going to be looking into a spark plug socket set that has many different sizes in one kit, hence the name!
I have seen anywhere from 4 piece sets, all the way up to 13 piece sets and more, so you will have to look around to see which set will work best for you. The common socket sizes in most of these sets seems to be 5/8", 3/4", 13/16" and 18mm.
Some sets only come with the sockets themselves while other sets can come with swivel joints and extensions too, making it a more complete set, in my opinion.
Automotive VS Small Engine Use...
Granted that most of this article is probably going to be geared towards people replacing their spark plugs in automotive applications but remember that small engines also use spark plugs and some of these sockets with the extensions and swivels may be overkill for something like a lawnmower.
Their are other spark plug sockets/wrenches that are better equipped for these types of machines and will be much more economical to use.
The picture illustrates a spark plug wrench that is much smaller and easier to use and is best suited for small engine spark plugs, rather than automotive types.
Small engine plugs will not require that much torque in order to break them free, whereas a plug in a car or truck will and you will not get enough leverage with this type of tool.
It is also important to note that while most spark plugs will require you to torque them down to a specific torque setting, on small engines it is less critical compared to a more advanced automobile.
Spark Plug Socket VS A Standard Deep Socket:
Remember that spark plug sockets are specifically designed with two main purposes in mind and these are to hold the spark plug in the socket without falling out and to protect the more delicate parts of the plug, like the insulator.
A standard deep socket will work in a bind, especially for small engine plugs but it will create more headaches that it is worth in some automotive applications, especially if they are deep down in the engine bay.
Thin Wall VS Standard Wall Thickness:
Most spark plug sockets are deep sockets but some take it a step further and are thin walled, as opposed to a standard wall thickness. These are really just made to fit a specific application or vehicle.
Some areas where spark plugs are located will require a bit more room in order to get the spark plug out and the thin walled sockets are great for that. These are pretty rare though but if you do happen to need one, then they are widely available online.
* It is important to note that most thin walled sockets will be a 12 point socket and not a 6 point socket.
Is a 6 Point Or 12 Point Socket Better?
It really doesn't matter if you use a 12 point or 6 point socket for spark plugs but the majority of sockets are probably a 6 point type, from what I've come across, anyways.
Most of the time a 6 point socket will be the socket of choice for spark plugs but you can get away with using a 12 point socket since there is usually minimal torque on the plugs themselves.
TIP!
Use caution if a spark plug seems stuck inside the cylinder. A 6 point socket will prevent the likelihood of stripping the spark plug in these types of situations.
Spark Plug Sockets For Specific Models...
Most of the time people will do a search for a spark plug socket and their model car or engine, which I do myself in order to find the correct size socket.
The only thing I would recommend doing is adding the year to your vehicle in order to get the correct sized socket.
Reading a few posts online, especially forums, will help you figure out which size socket you need. Sometimes a specialty socket will be available that works perfectly with your engine, making the process almost effortless.
TIP!
I have found better success searching for the year and the type of engine when it comes to finding the correct sized socket. For instance, a 2016 5.4 liter engine, instead of searching for a 2016 Ford Expedition, which can have a 4.6l or 5.4l engine.
What Type Of Wrench Should I Be Using?
When removing spark plugs a standard wrench is best suited, especially if the plugs are a little stuck.
This will prevent you from using excessive force when removing them (like a larger torque wrench might do) and preventing any damage from occurring to the spark plugs or the threads of the engine.
When installing spark plugs, it is best to use a torque wrench, in order to achieve the recommended torque specs that the manufacturer recommends.
Standard Length, Long and Extra Long Sockets Are Available!
Spark plug sockets are usually pretty long and referred to as a deep socket in most cases but there are some sockets out there that are even longer than the standard deep socket.
These are sometimes referred to as long or even extra long spark plug sockets.
These come in handy when a standard socket won't reach the plugs, so these longer sockets are the preferred choice. I have never needed to use these myself but I know that some people that prefer to use these because the added length makes the job a bit easier for them.
