Spark Plug Socket Size report
Spark plugs are a critical combustion engine component that will eventually wear out. While it is technically possible to remove wasted plugs using a standard deep well socket, there is a good possibility you may harm good ones. When working on a car, truck, motorcycle, or lawnmower, you can always use a spark plug socket.
Almost every spark plug is available in a size of HEX sizes. Hex refers to the socket or diameter in the middle of a spark plug used to spin, screw-down, or unscrew the spark plug. There are many options, but you generally need 14,16,18,21 mm sockets with both 12 and 6 point configurations. Almost all new vehicles use these spark plugs, motorcycles, and even garden machines.
Spark plugs need to be checked regularly and replaced with new ones in time. You will need just a few tools to change out the spark plugs on your car, and the most important thing is to know the correct size you need. In the following article, you can learn more about the common spark plug socket sizes, which will help you determine which size plug should be installed in which type of engine.
Spark Plug Socket Size Guide
What is the most common size of spark plug socket? You will discover there is no standard spark plug socket size in your plug socket set. The most common sizes, 13/16′′ and 5/8′′ are sometimes confused with standard spark plug socket sizes. Although a 3/4" plug socket is common in lawnmowers, these sizes are mainly found in cars. The spark plug size varies depending on the vehicle.
Spark Plug Socket Size Chart
Here is the size chart of the most used spark plug socket size in mm and inches, including their applications. The most common spark plug size is 5/8," but the actual size you need is very vehicle dependent. Please note that 7/8" sockets are rarely included in socket sets due to their more specialized use and require a 1/2" drive.
| Spark plug size in inches | Spark plug size in mm | Socket needed(mm) | Aplication |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5/8" | 16 mm | 5/8 -16 mm | Scooters, motorcycles, smaller cars |
| 13/16" | 20 mm | 13/16 mm | Cars |
| 3/4" | 19 mm | 3/4 mm | Lawn mowers/Small engines |
| 18 mm | 3/8 mm | Motorcycles | |
| 9/16" | 14 mm | 9/16 mm | Ford, Newer asian cars |
| 11/16" | 8 mm | 11/16 mm | Older BMW |
| 7/8" | 22 mm | 7/8 mm | Rare |
How to Know the Right Spark Plug Socket Size
Finding the proper spark plug socket size is not difficult, but many individuals make mistakes. To find the size of the spark plug socket, follow the procedures below.
- Firstly, check your manual to find the kind and model of the pre-gapped plug, which makes determining the socket size simple.
- Check the size mark on the spark plug itself. You can measure the hex size with Vernier calipers if you have access to it. And read Allen Key sizes in mm.
- You may fin metric size or size in mm on a different vehicle, so you will need to check which your car has or have in your kit, do not forget to convert mm to metric.
While, in conclusion, there is no standard size. The size of any spark plug socket depends on the size and type of vehicle it is used in. Some are the usual size that people mistakenly took as the "standard size," and some are quite big. We strongly recommend you should consult the salesperson before purchasing or replacing.
