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If you are looking for the best torque wrench to replace spark plugs, this is the right place to start. In this guide, we will go through some of the top selling torque wrenches and tell you why they are best.
Not to mention, spark plugs are a sensitive component of any engine; whenever you’re set to tighten them properly, you are likely to look out for the best torque wrench for spark plugs available on the market.
But that can be quite a time consuming job since the market is full of cheap products and fake claims. So we spent hours doing extensive analysis on various options and user feedback on them.
After careful research we were able to make a shortlist of the torque wrench that we think are best for spark plugs.
We’d suggest you to go through all the products in the list, but if you lack the time check out EPAuto 3/8-Inch Drive Click Torque Wrench at first. Any automotive enthusiast who wants a proper fit and longevity will love having a tool like this. That being said, let’s continue our journey towards the blow shortlist, the comparison table, the buying guide and all the information on those torque wrenches awaiting.
Our Shortlisted Best Torque Wrenches for Spark Plugs:
- EPAuto 3/8-Inch Drive Click Torque Wrench –Best Overall
- Tekton 3/8-inch Drive Click Torque Wrench – Best Runner Up
- TAGVIT 3/8-inch Drive Click Torque Wrench Set – Excellent Quality for Money
- DEWALT 3/8-inch Drive Micro Adjust Torque Wrench – Best for Small Adjustments
- ACDelco ARM601-3 3/8” Digital Torque Wrench – Best for Torque Angle Measurements
- eTORK 3/8 inch Drive Click-Style Torque Wrench – Very Easy to Use
- eTORK 3/8-Inch Drive Electronic Torque Wrench – Set Up Torque in 4 Measurement Units
Best Torque Wrenches For Spark Plugs (Quick Overview)
1. EPAuto 3/8-Inch Drive Click Torque Wrench
The hardened steel construction along with the included adapters (3/8” to ¼” and 3/8” to ½” drive) and extension bar has made EpAuto 3/8 inch an ultimate choice for all kinds of vehicle maintenance.
That’s why industry experts recommend this torque wrench frequently and for the same reasons it is topping our list as well.
Take the durable ratchet head as an example. It allows you to tighten and loosen the spark plugs without removing the wrench so that you can get the job done fastener. The non-slip grip and knurled handle add to the seamless operation.
Its high contrast, dual range (foot-pound/ Newton-meter) scale is a charm to work with. This lets you adjust the torque level precisely according to your needs. Moreover, the product comes along with a nice, strong plastic box to keep your tool safe all the time.
The only drawback of this otherwise excellent torque wrench is that the clicking sound is a bit subtle. You may miss the alert and over tighten the nuts if not careful.
What We Like
- Affordable price
- Easy to use and store
- Has a smooth grip
- Sturdy and long lasting construction
What Can be Improved
- Clicking sound is low
2. Tekton 3/8-inch Drive Click Torque Wrench
Professionals love the Tekton 3/8-inch Click Torque Wrench for multiple reasons. At first glance we were pretty impressed by its solid steel construction. There is no plastic anywhere, so tears and damages are less likely to happen.
The durability of this product, with its comfortable grip means that spark plugs will be set up perfectly each and every time. It is calibrated precisely to provide the best possible results.
Like the EPAuto 3/8 inch torque wrench, it has a fixed square head design which generates a clear clicking sound when the limit is reached. Furthermore, with a torque range of 10 to 80 ft.-lbs., it accommodates all spark plug thread sizes comfortably. However, the wrench can only be turned clockwise to measure torque. Not suitable for a left-handed user.
What We Like
- Reasonable price
- Decent accuracy
- Reliable and easy to use
- Long lasting and efficient
What Can Be Improved
- Limited angular adjustments.
3. TAGVIT 3/8 -inch Drive Click Torque Wrench Set
This is another highly regarded torque wrench for replacing the spark plugs in cars and motorbikes.
The versatile torque wrench comes with two (14mm & 16mm) spark plug sockets, a 25cm extension bar and one universal joint. Thanks to the flexible paddle on the head. You can use the tool for all sorts of vehicle assembly and installation jobs with high precision.
Talking about precision, the accuracy (+/-3) of this tool is quite exceptional, way better than any regular torque wrenches on the market. With this tool in hand, you can keep your engine up and running without worrying about over-tightening.
Other than these, its quick release button brings convenience and safety for the users. You can attach and unhook the sockets in seconds.
The ‘click’ reminder is clear and loud. We also haven’t found any issue rotating the handle for scale adjustments. All in all, TAGVIT ⅜ -inch seems a pretty decent deal, a steal for the best torque wrench for spark plugs.
What We Like
- Very reasonably priced
- Industrial grade accuracy
- Offers clockwise and anticlockwise movements
- Rust proof, corrosion resistant material
What Can be Improved
- Includes one precision scale (in ft.lb.) only.
4. DEWALT ⅜-inch Drive Micro Adjust Torque Wrench
Next on our list, we have Dewalt 3/8” Drive Micro Adjust Torque Wrench. Many experts address it as one of the best torque wrenches for spark plugs due to its precision level and ease of handling.
This torque wrench has forward and reverse torque capabilities. Besides it comes along with a locking trigger and a quick-release system. All of these have made this tool easier and faster to adjust and read the torque.
Unlike typical torque wrenches, this one features a longer handle, ensuring maximum leverage to work in hard to reach places. The robust bi-gripping material improves user convenience even more.
As for the torque range, it can go down to 10 ft.-lbs. and goes up to almost 150 ft.-lbs. which is pretty impressive for a ⅜-inch drive torque wrench. The micrometer scale is a plus. With this function enabled, you can perform tiny changes on bolted joints without sacrificing precision.
We also liked the protective bumper at the head. If you drop the tool multiple times, this guarantees that no harm is done. Its high grade alloy steel construction is also worth mentioning.
The only criticism we can make is the fixed square head. If you are primarily concerned about tightening the spark plugs this won’t create any issue. But if you are a professional you will feel a bit limited with this design. You may not work out the tight angles comfortably. A flex head will be a better choice in this case.
What We Like
- Offers adequate precision.
- Ergonomic, convenient to use
- Protective bumper reduces risk of damage
- Heavy-duty storage case keeps the tool well protected
What Can be Improved
- Not a deal breaker, but this tool is a comparatively pricey
5. ACDelco ARM601-3 3/8” Digital Torque Wrench
Unlike a click-based torque wrench, you can set the required torque much quicker with a digital version of the tool.
This wrench is slim making it very easy to work with. It emits an intermittent buzzer when you reach 90% of the torque. It’s a great feature as it alerts you beforehand and prevents you from over tightening the spark plug.
Again, when you reach the preset torque value you’ll hear an electric note of a higher frequency. The sound is much louder and more reliable than the clicking sound of most click-type torque wrenches.
What makes it unique is the ability to measure torque in both foot pound and degree angle. The accuracy of this torque wrench (± 1.5%) is also hard to beat.
Other features include two directional turns (clockwise and anti-clockwise). So both left-handed and right-handed people can operate this tool without problems.
Finally, it offers a 3.7 to 37 foot pounds range, good enough for most spark plug torque restoration. However, if you are a pro mechanic, a more powerful Tekton 3/8-inch Torque Wrench is a better, long term choice.
What We Like
- Easy to set torque value
- Comes with high degree of accuracy
- Offer both torque and angular measurements
- Loud electrical beep at reaching torque value
What Can be Improved
- The buzzer alert doesn’t always work as promised. Sometimes go pass preset torque by 1 to 2 food pounds.
6. eTORK 3/8 inch Drive Click-Style Torque Wrench
This handy torque wrench is built with cutting-edge technology that you can sense once you grab it. With a number of useful features, it comes with exquisite design and proper weight that gives you the confidence to set your spark plug with perfection.
Including the regular features, you get ±3% accuracy with a lifetime personal use warranty. It makes a clicking sound whenever you reach the torque limit, which makes you rely on this device to get your work done appropriately.
The shape of the head and secure locking knob along with a solid and comfortable grip makes it a grab and go device for fixing your spark plugs. Besides, its 45 tooth ratchet head allows two directional turns, but the clockwise movement is more accurate as found in lab tests.
In addition, due to the premium build, the product is less likely to damage even with repetitive uses. However, we wouldn’t recommend this tool for jobs like fitting bolts in tight spaces.
The handle has not been replaced with a tapered shaft making it the same shape and diameter all the way to the head. This makes it awkward and bulky to use particularly in tight spaces. There might not be enough space to get your hand free or you might end up jamming your fingers accidentally.
What We Like
- Accuracy up to the mark
- Durable and simple to use
- Efficient in demanding situation
- Clear audible clicking sound
What Can be Improved
- The head and neck of this wrench is bulky
7. eTORK 3/8-Inch Drive Click Style Electronic Torque Wrench
Finally, we have another eTORK 3/8-Inch drive torque wrench to talk about, but this time it is an electronic model. This tool offers 4 to 20 foot pounds of torque range which is handy for tightening or loosening any spark plugs.
The body is made out of alloy steel, and the head style is torx, making it very lightweight and long-lasting as a unit. It gets better as the ergonomic handle provides a flexible and cozy rubber grip.
The 45 tooth ratchet head is reversible which ensures seamless movement in both directions. The push lock mechanism also works very smoothly, and will save your torque setting for accidental changes.
In addition, it features a digital scale with a nice display and clear numbers. So you can work on your engine under the hood of your car and not miss the important reading.
Furthermore, with the push of a button, you can switch between four measurements (N.M, LB,in, Kg.CM, LB,in) to speed up your work on different bolts that demand torque in either inch-pound or foot-pound units.
And don’t worry about exceeding the preset torque while turning!
When the torque is achieved, the head will release automatically, and produce an audible ‘click’ sound. Overall, we highly recommend this tool to anyone who needs a torque wrench for spark plugs or other light duty applications.
What We Like
- Excellent quality for the price
- Offers intuitive, automatic features
- Digital display lets you work in dark spaces
- Can measure torque in four different units
What Can be Improved
- Doesn’t have a beep indicator. Also the Click sound isn’t very prominent.
Choosing the Best Torque Wrench for Spark Plugs: Factors to Consider
To choose the right torque wrench for spark plugs you need to focus on a few factors. They are very important to know so that you get the best product with the most desiring features, and at a decent price.
Material
One of the most essential factors to consider when it comes to torque wrenches is the material they are made up of. The construction along with the manufacturing materials indicates the strength and durability of the product.
We typically recommend wrenches that are made up of alloy steel, chromium vanadium steel, and several other strong metals. It also makes sure that the item does not rust or corrode easily.
Type
There are usually two types of torque wrenches available in the market: mechanical and electronic.
Mechanical wrenches are easy to adjust and more affordable compared to the electronic ones. On the other hand, the accuracy of digital wrenches is much higher and has a more precise calibration. Among mechanical torque wrenches, split beam types are the most beginners friendly. They don’t need any after use adjustments like those in click type wrenches (lowering down torque setting for storage).
Dual Direction
Torque wrenches with dual direction capability can be twisted in both clockwise and anticlockwise direction. If you own a car having a bunch of reverse threaded bolts this one will come in handy.
Accuracy
It is essential to adjust the spark plugs to the right torque value in order to make sure that it works accurately and does not cause any damage. The accuracy is important to consider as it allows you to reach the torque value properly.
Majority of the torque wrenches offer a standard accuracy of +/-4% in clockwise direction, but a few models offer +/-2% accuracy. The standard accuracy in anticlockwise direction is +/-6%.
Price
Price is also an important factor to choose a torque wrench. Not everyone has the same budget and the need cases. Price is also an important factor to choose a torque wrench. Not everyone has the same budget and the need cases. A $150 torque wrench may be appropriate for a professional, but for a hobbyist this might be unnecessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the implications if the spark plug torque is set too low?
If the spark plug torque is set too low, there’s a risk of explosion loss and engine overheating. It can also happen that the insulator or electrodes will crack from excessive vibration.
What are the implications if the spark plug torque is set too high?
If the tightening torque is too high, the spark plug metal shell will be over stressed and possibly distorted, resulting in disrupted head dissipation, or melting of the electrodes – both of these things usually mean engine failure!
What size torque wrench do I need for spark plugs?
There are three common socket drive sizes used in torque wrench applications, ½-inch, ¾-inch and ⅜-inch. The bigger the socket drive the longer the handle is and the greater the torque capability. ⅜-inch is the smallest drive size needed for engine works such as tightening spark plugs and timing the belt assembly.
Wrapping Up
The products we have mentioned above are some of the best torque wrench for spark plugs options in the market right now. We have tested all the items to ensure you get the right feedback and proper performance each and every time. Even after that, we will strongly suggest considering the buying factors. Hopefully, you will be able to embark on your desired torque wrench out of the list with more confidence.