All car repair shops should be equipped with the tools and equipment required for every job. A key tool that every garage must have is a feeler gauge.
In this article, we’ll show you what feeler gauges are used for and the options of feeler gauges available in the KROFtools catalogue. Keep reading!
What is a feeler gauge?
A feeler gauge is a metal tool placed next to engine valves, pistons, and bearings to check the size of gaps between these components.
When this procedure is carried out, some engine components must be removed to check the space between them.
On the subject of car engines, find out more about your car’s engine pistons in our article Pistons: 5 Tips to prevent damage.
What is a feeler gauge used for?
Feeler gauges, also known as thickness gauges, are used to check the gaps between specific components.
The component is made up of several fan-shaped blades. Each blade has a different diameter and thickness.
Which components is a feeler gauge used in?
Feeler gauges are used in the following components:
- Piston rings;
- Hydraulic tappets;
- Engine pistons;
- Gearbox gears;
- Spark plugs.
Which feeler gauges are available in the KROFtools catalogue?
Keep reading to check out the options available in the KROFtools catalogue.
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Feeler Gauge 14 Blades
Click on the image to find out more about our Feeler Gauge 14 Blades (ref.8123).
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Feeler Gauge 32 Blades
Click on the image to find out more about our Feeler Gauge 32 Blades (ref.8124).
All KROFtools feeler gauges have their thickness indicated on each blade to make measurements easier for mechanics under every circumstance.
Find out more about what mechanics want you to stop doing in our article Mechanics: 7 things they want you to stop doing.
Which are the best feeler gauges?
There’s no such thing as the perfect feeler gauge for every component. You should choose a feeler gauge that suits your needs, according to the type of vehicle you see most often in your repair shop and their engine.
Find out more about other tools mechanics need in their repair shops in our article 11 Auto Tools every mechanic needs.
Read on to find out how to work a feeler gauge.
How should you use a feeler gauge on a spark plug?
To use your feeler gauge, follow the following steps:
- Take your spark plug and feeler gauge;
- Observe the space between the electrodes;
- Choose one of the blades and position it in the range required;
- If the blade does not fit, try a thinner one;
- If the blade does not fit snugly between them, try a thicker one;
- When you find a perfectly fitting blade, you’ll have the exact measurement of the space between the components.
What care should you take with a feeler gauge?
To ensure you don’t damage your feeler gauge, follow the tips below:
- Store your feeler gauge in a protected location free from vibrations;
- Use it to check clearances only;
- Do not use under any circumstance that could lead to pressure being applied to blades;
- Clean the blades after each use;
- Do not force the blades into gaps.
How much does a feeler gauge cost?
The price of feeler gauges ranges from 5 to 25 euros, depending on the number of blades and the thickness of each one.
Where can you buy a feeler gauge?
You can purchase a feeler gauge from a KROFtools dealer.
It’s worth remembering the importance of purchasing a feeler gauge suitable for the type of engines seen most frequently in your garage.
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