Tools & Fabrication - Spark Plug Gapping Tools

Hey guys i would like to know what everyone is using to gap there plugs. Im looking for a reliable and spot on tool. I've seen Summit Racing and Accel has a pliers tool.

I just use a feeler gauge. If its good enough for the 90 million dollar v22 osprey, its good enough for my spark plugs.

...I really haven't heard any praises of said spark plug tools though, FWIW.

From one Marine to another ;-)

Ya i normally use a feeler gauge as well. Just curious if there are real tools out there that are being used and recommended.

feeler gauges are the real tool you use to check gaps. thats what they are made for.

ya i get that, i use a feeler gauge to "check" gaps. but im asking for actually gapping tools. Or do most people just use needle nose pliers or push the tip against something to actually change the gap?

On copper and platinum tip plugs, I just use a gapping tool that I got from SnapOn that looks like a screwdriver, but with a gauge on it, and I pry upwards on the ground. If gapping an iridium plug, you can not pry as you may contact the electrode and snap the micro welded iridium tip off, in that case I use needle nose pliers. To close the gap I just push against something solid, like a vise.

I've got a Snap-on, Matco, and Craftsman gapper. They're all pretty decent. The Craftsman will be the cheapest and most accessible if you don't visit the tool truck that often.

Whatever you do, don't use or buy the elcheapo gappers they have sitting next to the registers at parts stores. Those things are junk and inconsistent as hell.

don't use or buy the elcheapo gappers they have sitting next to the registers at parts stores.

You crazy? Those are the best tool deal in the store. I buy one every time I go in there:chug:

funny i cant seem to find an other gapping tools than the generic ones (2) i found on Summit's site. I looked on Matco, Craftsman and Snap-on websites.

all ive seen are the gap gauges and feelers

There's a few snap on plug gapping tools on ebay right now (new) I bought one the other week there going for around $14

are you still lookin for a "spark plug gapper tool thingy" or have you invested in a set of feeler gauges yet?

still looking for a gapping tool. i already have feeler gauges.

feeler gauges are your best bet, its what everyone uses

tiny screw driver to open up the gap then feeler gauges to measure the gap. I searched this same thing about 3 months ago and came up blank, I started talking to guys running mid 9s and they recommended feeler gauges as well.

ya i have used feeler gauges and the force HAHA. I was just curious how popular actual gapping tools like pliers were.

I've used this Lisle gapping tool for many years, the 'fingers' at each end are used to gently twist the ground electrode in or out until the proper gap is reached. I thought every tool box had one of these. :nod:

Mike

i use a gapper tool i got from jacobs electronics......i think they still make it......works like a charm

i've had the best luck with the ones that actually bend the ground strap back without touching the electrode. best way to go IMO.

http://www.handymanlyness.com/archives/outdoor/power_equipment/snowblower_1/oesbmnx7a_snowblower_maint.jpg

I have one of these, very good tool, but cant find info on it, I want another ring, to gap .035+ this one goes, .018-.035

http://www.flickr.com/photos/34497734@N00/1030102619

^^^^ that looks pretty much like the jacobs tool

^^^^ that looks pretty much like the jacobs tool

nope, the jacobs tool has a sloped disc, not individual little "feeler gauges"

the principle is pretty close

Feeler gauges or wire style gapper are the only ways to go.

that lisle tool looks pretty descent

I only use feeler gauges, no ramp style key chains or fancy gizmos.

Feeler gauge and small screw driver here too...

http://i997.photobucket.com/albums/af98/jon-n-kel/SP%20gap%20tool/DSC00502.jpg

http://i997.photobucket.com/albums/af98/jon-n-kel/SP%20gap%20tool/DSC00510.jpg

http://i997.photobucket.com/albums/af98/jon-n-kel/SP%20gap%20tool/DSC00509.jpg

http://i997.photobucket.com/albums/af98/jon-n-kel/SP%20gap%20tool/DSC00503.jpg

Feeler gauges or wire style gapper are the only ways to go.

that lisle tool looks pretty descent

If you do a little research (not opinions on internet forums), you'll find the wire style gapper is the preferred method.

i have no complaints about my jacobs tool......i wonder if they still make it