Using impact driver to r/r Spark Plugs

[Kruse]

Originally Posted By: Trav
Originally Posted By: bepperb
It passes the "it should be ok" test.

It doesn't pass the "would you want it done on your car" test.

I wouldn't rip someone for doing it, but they wouldn't be on my A list either. And I'm sure there are instances where it might be best practice, but it certainly shouldn't be the default for all spark plugs.


I guess you could say the guy that uses a ratchet shouldn't be on the A list either.
I guess a good mechanic carefully removes every bolt with a box wrench and the best ones use a open end wrench 1/4 of a turn at a time. LOL


Time is money and I don't think anyone is going to get on your case about using an impact wrench or driver to save time on most items, including your transmission assembly or disassembly. However, there's a world of difference between running up a transmission bolt and tightening up a spark plug. A transmission bolt won't blow out on it's own like a 5.4 Ford spark plug. (BTW, my 5.4 has blown out three of them, thanks to the gorilla mechanic that the previous owner used and I've personally used TimeSert repairs on each plug) I would have no problem removing them with an impact of any kind. But when installing them, it's nice to have a good human feel about the quality of the threads, something an impact driver or machine can't give you.

 

[Trav]

No one is talking about using an impact gun or driver to remove or install spark plugs.
I know the unit he is talking about, the way the guy is using it is just a runner with no torque after he breaks them free by hand and torques them by hand after running them down.

Some of you guys cant picture how he is using this, you just see the word impact and freak.
The way he is using it doesn't even get them hand tight.

As long as he starts the threads properly by hand first i have no problem with it.
Personally i don't use one but then again i'm not on flat rate.

 

[The_Eric]

Originally Posted By: Trav
No one is talking about using an impact gun or driver to remove or install spark plugs.
I know the unit he is talking about, the way the guy is using it is just a runner with no torque after he breaks them free by hand and torques them by hand after running them down.

Some of you guys cant picture how he is using this, you just see the word impact and freak.
The way he is using it doesn't even get them hand tight.

As long as he starts the threads properly by hand first i have no problem with it.
Personally i don't use one but then again i'm not on flat rate.



I agree.

I think that a lot of the detractors are arm chair mechanics who have little concept of power tools. When you've wrenched every day for even a couple of months and IF you have more than 3 properly functioning brain cells, you learn that there are many things you can do to save time and still do a quality job. You also learn what your power tools can do and how to manipulate them. And for what it's worth, my motivations to save time are my own. I'm paid straight hourly, so no incentive to rush. In fact, when I first started, I was told not to rush. Just do the job right.