Snap-On Spark Plug sockets???

[johninct]

I am thinking of getting some Snap-On Spark plug sockets and don't know what type to buy, either the standard ones or the Retention ones. What are the Pros and Cons of each?? Thanks!

 

[Mr. Tool]

I strongly recommend that you purchase the 'retention' type spark plug socket(s) whether it's 'magnet' or 'spring clip' type. For me doesn't matter if the Socket is from Snap-On or some other manufacturer. Believe me they are well worth purchasing and will definitely be a big help with removing and installing spark plugs.

Pros: No problems encountered with slipping, dropping, etc., etc. spark plugs always a secure way on holding on to them.

Cons: None that I know of.

The 'standard' spark plug type is so outdated, old school.

It's like going out and looking to buy a television set..."If you were in the market to buy a tv would you get a flat screen color tv....or would you purchase a regular black and white box television set"?......I know what my choice would be!

 

[shockwave]

I personally like the old style better than the retention style but make sure you have some good extensions or locking extensions since they will stick easily on new snap on spark plug sockets

 

[schmelpboy]

;They both have their uses; I have both, and multiple sets. I have some that are 20 years old that are just a standard looking socket, but have the rubber retention in the bottom. They have their uses....Work well on pretty much any car that is easy to get at the plugs. I also have the swivel type, which I used on my Wrangler when Jeep thought it was a good idea to make the owner not only climb their vehicle, but climb into the engine compartment to get to the rear plugs.....The best part about the old style is they are a dime a dozen. I bought mine at an auction for 10 bucks or so for a pair. The new style with the swivel I purchased off of the truck...not so cheap. But again, they both have uses in their own right, and eventually, you'll probably find it's easier to have a set of each.

 

[amlv20]

I would like to recommend you the Mac spark plug socket set.i don't know how much it costs now, but a few years ago I got it off the truck for $100.its has three different sizes, and three different styles for each size.standard socket, long socket, and swivle socket.

 

[JBradley500]

I swapped a broken mac one in and it's replacement was made in taiwan. Keep that in mind.

 

[CWP1616L]

Spark plug sockets are better than regular deep sockets because______?

 

[dowmace]

Spark plug sockets are better than regular deep sockets because______?

A regular deep socket doesn't have any kind of holding ability to keep the spark plug in place when removing or installing.

Sent from my SPH-L900 using Tapatalk now Free

 

[Fedwrench]

Spark plug sockets are better than regular deep sockets because______?

They have a retention device ranging from a rubber insert, to a magnet, to a srping, or triangualr notches that retain the spark plug centered to prevent damage to the porcelin insulator.

The MAC 9 piece plug socket set is nice but, it's not made by MAC and the sockets aren't stamped USA because the case wrapper says made in Taiwan on it. I also think the swivel sockets aren't long enough as I've had the plug terminal post hit the socket u joint portion.

I have the snap on retention type too (the ones where when you wiggle them they're supposed to release) sometimes I fight with them to let go.

I like the one piece industrial finhed MAC swivel plug socket/extensions, and the gearwrench ball extension/plug socket. Experiment, try some different types and get what you like. :beeR:

 

[HighwayTrout]

I have a few Snap On plug sockets. I never use them. I use a piece of air hose or fuel hose. Much easier to work with. I bought the equivalent tool from Mac but I lost it in an engine bay some time ago. I never bought a replacement because a piece of hose works the same. Once started or broke free I slip the hose on the plug.

Here is Mac version.

 

[fivespdcat]

Spark plug sockets are better than regular deep sockets because______?

Good spark plug sockets are designed to have extra clearance around the spark plug insulator to prevent cracking the porcelain. I've seen more than my fair share of broken insulators caused by common deep well sockets. I've also seen enough broken spark plugs caused by people who think it's a good idea to use an impact gun or even those that like to ignore torque specs.

 

[MattPersman]

I love snap on tools but the gearwrench (also labeled as Matco) magnetic spark plug sockets standard and swivel are very good easily bought at advance auto parts for a few sizes or a multi piece set online or through Matco. Very good clearance in most holes we all know there are some out there with a crazy small diameter opening that requires a certain socket just to get the job done.

 

[fatfillup]

I have noticed my Snap on spark plug socket is a bit thinner walled then a Cman or other less expensive spark plug socket. It makes a difference on one application I do on a regular basis. That is a 18 to 24 hp Honda v twin engine. Clearance between the valve cover and plug is tight.

If you are doing auto work, I agree on the locking extensions.

 

[arms1970]

Snap On Swivel, use it on my 97 ford f150.

 

[signcrafter]

I've picked up a bunch over the years. Have many off the old kind and have added more specialty ones over the years. Have some snap on swivels. Have some gearwrench swivels with the built in 4" or so extension. Also have the snap on double U joint impact ones. They all have their place. As for the retention part it really doesn't matter to me what it is because I will use a locking extension on them so just wiggle it off.

 

[Mr. Tool]

These offer's here on Ebay is one-heck-of-a-deal on "Ko-Ken Spark Plug Socket Sets". For a set of three (3) in 1/2" (which I purchased a set from that particular seller by the way) or a set of five (5) in 3/8"!


http://www.ebay.com/itm/Ko-Ken-4300..._Automotive_Tools&hash=item565bb625ff&vxp=mtr


http://www.ebay.com/itm/Ko-Ken-3300..._Automotive_Tools&hash=item3385d44fe0&vxp=mtr


I also just purchased an extension set of three (3) in 3/8" just like this but in 250 mm length:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Ko-Ken-3300..._Automotive_Tools&hash=item565af6d58a&vxp=mtr


The price, IMHO, is a too good of a deal to pass up if your in the market for spark plug sockets!

 

[Polski-Chevy]

This is a nice set and the price is right...
http://www.trident-supply.com/GearWrench_3_Pc_Spark_Plug_Ratchet_Set_p/329-81229.htm

 

[richfinn]

Be careful with the magnetic retainer types, some manufacturers are claiming they can damage the spark plug.

The rubber inserts are frustrating and lose grip when worn
and you never get around to replacing them.

The spring clip types are about the best, I like Ko-Ken like the version pictured.