Automotive Precision & Measuring Tools
The word precision is defined as the quality, condition, or fact of being exact and accurate. When it comes to a cars performance, precision is of utmost importance. Thankfully, there is a multitude of automotive precision and measuring tools available on the market. Whether you are a hobbyist or a professional grease monkey, having the right tool not only gets the job right but gets it done quicker and lets you get back on the road sooner.
Measure the Distance
An essential tool in your toolbox is a micrometer which is used to gauge the depth. Often it is used to ensure the correct distance between two objects under the hood of a car. A micrometer is more commonly called a micrometer screw gauge or a micrometer caliper. No matter what you call it, its a handy tool to have around to make sure you get the job done correctly.
Measure the Hole
To precisely measure the inside diameter of a hole, cylinder or pipe you need to use a bore gauge. There are three steps to getting a reading. First, you need to zero the gauge by measuring across the gauge with a micrometer that is set to the precise bore size. Second, insert the bore gauge into the depth you need for an accurate reading. Third, read the display. The reading may be more or less than zero depending on if the hole is oversized or undersized.
Measure the Gap
Its important to measure the gap between the center and side electrodes of a spark plug to make sure you have exact distance needed for the plugs to fire efficiently. Mechanics use a spark plug gap gauge to adjust the distance between the two electrodes. The action of doing this is called gapping your spark plugs.
Measure the Thickness
A thickness gauge is often called a feeler gauge. The above-mentioned spark plug gap gauge is a type of feeler gauge used in automotive repair. In addition to using it to measure the distance between the electrodes of a spark plug, feeler gauges are also used when working on a valve adjustment or setting the distributor.