spark plug sockets

[benny3008]

Why is a 14mm SP socket not the same diameter (as in 14mm) as a normal 14mm socket? Is it the same with all sockets, are they proportionally bigger? what for?

[ChuckFickens]

it's not a 14mm socket, it's for 14mm spark plugs, so if you measure the width of the threaded part of the spark plug it will be 14mm.

The socket size is a fair bit larger.

[beso]

I had never noticed. Maybe they are a little looser to make them easier to align.

They do have that rubber grip insert and one would not want any competition between that and the hex body of the plug.

[benny3008]

oh i see! i get it now, why do they do it like that chuck, why not just do it on the size of the bolt bit? :-/

[ChuckFickens]

I have no idea why they do it like that.

It's like calling a 13mm spanner a 8mm spanner because you use it on M8 bolts.

If anyone else can throw any light on why they base the socket measurement on the width of the plug rather than the width hexagon I'd be interested to know.

[chas2008]

i have the same issues here, suppliers measure bolts in thread size but mechanics measure them in socket size..great fun working out what they actually want.

[TonyV]

benny - is starter motor working ok?

[benny3008]

haven't tried starter motor yet, will be testing it shortly, can anyone help me find a spark plug socket to get the SP's out (Rover 214 K series), ive tried a standard 10mm socket but it wont fit in gap around spark plug. :-(

[TonyV]

get one from local motor factors - or at last halfords

[AlBags]

3/8 drive slimline.