Locking extensions?

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irv

Joined
Oct 8, 2006
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Oshawa, Ont. Canada
I am looking for a set of lockable extensions mainly so the spark plug socket does not come off when changing out a set of plugs.

I looked for these just recently at CDN Tire but none could be found and I didn't have the part number with me.
http://www.canadiantire.ca/en/pdp/m...lid=CLHfyKastt0CFVU6TwodNF0EqQ#store=187

Is there another alternative or another place to get these? CDN Tire does show other sets but those are discontinued just like what I think happened with the ones I posted above?
 
Originally Posted by Rand
use tape?


To get it out after it has stuck to the spark plug? I think it would take more than tape?
 
Originally Posted by irv
Originally Posted by Rand
use tape?


To get it out after it has stuck to the spark plug? I think it would take more than tape?


You were talking about locking extensions.. you can "lock" any extension with some tape.

How does a locking extension change the spark plug socket?

Maybe I misunderstood?
 
Here is what I do. I take the rubber keeper out of my socket. I bought a piece of fuel line that will fit over the porcelain part of the plug. The fuel line will hold the plug nicely for starting before tightening down with your socket. It also works at getting the plug out after loosening it.
 
Originally Posted by MParr
Here is what I do. I take the rubber keeper out of my socket. I bought a piece of fuel line that will fit over the porcelain part of the plug. The fuel line will hold the plug nicely for starting before tightening down with your socket. It also works at getting the plug out after loosening it.


+1. Old trick but it works well.
 
I forget where i first saw these, but as soon as i did i had to order a set for both my brother and I...
I hope amazon doesn't mind me linking to their picture...

It's a spark plug Socket, with a 6 inch extension, all permanently attached with a ball and socket joint. it's also internally magnetized

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0014ZVSVK/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
[Linked Image]
 
Originally Posted by Rand
Originally Posted by irv
Originally Posted by Rand
use tape?


To get it out after it has stuck to the spark plug? I think it would take more than tape?


You were talking about locking extensions.. you can "lock" any extension with some tape.

How does a locking extension change the spark plug socket?

Maybe I misunderstood?


Yes, please elaborate because I was going to suggest electrical tape as well.
 
I have a set of Craftsman extensions for this reason that lock. I lock my extension to my spark plug socket, and they don't come apart. Makes plug changes easier on the Acura for sure.
 
GearWrench makes a set of 3 that work real well, decent quality. There are 2 styles of these one with a smaller button instead of a sleeve, the SK I got have a sleeve.

https://www.amazon.com/Gearwrench-Set-Ext-Each-81202/dp/B00HDS3FAY/ref=sr_1_20?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1536790650&sr=1-20&keywords=GearWrench++3%2F8-Inch+drive+locking+extension

https://www.amazon.com/Piece-Drive-Locking-Extension-Set/dp/B00DOAQSWM/ref=sr_1_21?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1536790727&sr=1-21&keywords=GearWrench++3%2F8-Inch+drive+locking+extension
 
Originally Posted by Rand
Originally Posted by irv
Originally Posted by Rand
use tape?


To get it out after it has stuck to the spark plug? I think it would take more than tape?


You were talking about locking extensions.. you can "lock" any extension with some tape.

How does a locking extension change the spark plug socket?

Maybe I misunderstood?


Sorry, I misunderstood. I thought you meant after the socket had already been stuck to the plug, not wrap the socket to the extension.

Max, those are pricey! I don't need a set that bad but thanks just the same.
 
Originally Posted by Trav
GearWrench makes a set of 3 that work real well, decent quality. There are 2 styles of these one with a smaller button instead of a sleeve, the SK I got have a sleeve.

https://www.amazon.com/Gearwrench-Set-Ext-Each-81202/dp/B00HDS3FAY/ref=sr_1_20?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1536790650&sr=1-20&keywords=GearWrench++3%2F8-Inch+drive+locking+extension

https://www.amazon.com/Piece-Drive-Locking-Extension-Set/dp/B00DOAQSWM/ref=sr_1_21?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1536790727&sr=1-21&keywords=GearWrench++3%2F8-Inch+drive+locking+extension


Thanks Trav. The first set is the same set as CDN Tires, only I can't find them in the store even though they read they are there? I will have to try other CDN Tire stores to see how I make out?

The gas line trick will work, but I would rather not deal with that if I don't have to.

I appreciate the info so far guys.

I may try Home Depot and see if Husky has a similar set?
 
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Originally Posted by Trav
Don't mess around with tape and hose just get a magnetic plug socket if you are having problems with plugs sticking to the socket .


Thanks Trav. I just phoned my preferred CDN Tire store with the product # in hand but the guy basically admitted they don't have their act together so even if it shows 2 available on their site, it doesn't actually mean they have any?
crazy2.gif


If I can't find any locking extensions anywhere else, I will look into the magnetic alternative for sure.

I want these as I'd like to do a plug change on my son's 2.4 Malibu as it has around 143,000 kms and I don't know if they have ever been done?

Maybe these plugs aren't that far down and I don't even need these extensions, but I know I likely will someday for something?

I appreciate the info.
cheers3.gif
 
Last edited:
I bought one from Craftsman 10 years ago, I use it exclusively for spark plugs. Has a little lever on side of extension.
 
Are you indexing the extension detent ball with the hole in the socket.
If it has the rubber insert in the socket.....Try putting some dielectric grease on the insert. Removing the insert & trimming the rubber ribs a little may help also.
 
Originally Posted by caravanmike
I bought one from Craftsman 10 years ago, I use it exclusively for spark plugs. Has a little lever on side of extension.


No more Sears up here anymore unfortunately. I liked Craftsman too.

Did anyone buy Craftsman out or did they disappear along with Sears?
 
I have a set of SK locking extensions, used them for over thirty years now. You have to pull the locking sleeve down to take the socket off. I bought them in 3,6,12,18 and 24 inch lengths
 
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