Found an older Snap On spark plug gauge

[Sanny81]

It's basically this:

https://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/item.asp?item_ID=630568&group_ID=675339

Except it says "Snap On FB316" on it not FB316B. I also came across pictures of some that say FB316A but I couldn't find much about the one I found.

What's the difference between the markings of FB316, FB316A and FB316B and any ideas on how old the one I found might be? Thanks!

 

[rlitman]

They normally add the A and B appendix letter to the part number when an improvement is made. In this case, I could guess that the markings were etched in large lettering on the "B" version in the link, and yours probably has smaller markings.

Just like the difference between the OEX## and OEX##B, where the B has larger stamped sizes on the wrenches.

 

[Sanny81]

Here's a pic.

 

[rlitman]

Ahh, I think I see the difference. The new one has the metric equivalent markings.

 

[Sanny81]

Ahh, I think I see the difference. The new one has the metric equivalent markings.

So it's basically the same thing as what they sell now just an older version I guess.

 

[rlitman]

So it's basically the same thing as what they sell now just an older version I guess.

Yeah. A basic feeler gauge set really hasn't changed in design much over the years. The current one is Blue Point branded, while yours is Snap On. Both are COO USA, so I'm not sure why they would have changed the branding (SO is weird that way). Most likely this was made for, and not by SO.

Yours will serve you just as well as the new one, though I'd be careful about rust if you're cleaning it in an ultrasonic like it looks in the picture. Oil it very well, and rub off the existing rust with 0000 steel wool. Don't try to use electolysis to derust it, or you'll probably ruin the markings.

 

[Sanny81]

Thanks for the info. I have it soaking in vinegar in the pic, will that damage it?

Edit: Well the vinegar did ruin the markings.