Car Feeler Gauge Functions and How to Use It

Feeler gauge to measure what? You may often hear this question when you want to get to know the automotive world more deeply.

Speaking of feeler gauges, maybe you don't understand it well yourself, or maybe you just heard about it? So that you are not curious about the feeler gauge, you should pay attention to the following reviews.

Before you know what actually a feeler gauge is used to measure? You should first understand what a feeler gauge actually is?

Feeler gauge is an automotive measuring instrument made of steel, and shaped like sheets of various sizes. Each steel sheet has a thickness ranging from 0.01-1mm. For a technician, this tool has become a friend in doing car tune-ups or servicing. So what are the actual functions of a feeler gauge? Here's the full function.

1. Measure the valve or valve clearance

The main function of the feeler gauge is used to measure the valve or valve clearance in the cylinder chamber. As is known, the cylinder chamber valve serves to enter and remove exhaust gas and fuel gas.

The heat generated from the gas will eventually make the valve expand. These conditions can affect the valve clearance and make it smaller. In order for the valve clearance to return to normal, the technician will make periodic measurements using a feeler gauge.

2. Measure the gap on the platinum contact

The next function, a feeler gauge is used to measure the gap in the platinum contact. The use of a feeler gauge is intended so that the gap in the platinum contact is not too large so that the electric current and induction produced by the platinum is greater. These conditions can improve the performance of spark plugs so that the car engine is easy to start.

3. Measure the bend of the cylinder head

Feeler gauge is also used to measure cylinder head bend. If the component is bent it can weaken the car's compression system.

4. Measure the gap on the spark plug

The feeler gauge is also used to measure the gap on the spark plug that is too large to return to the normal spark plug gap (0.7-0.99mm) so that the spark plug functions properly.

5. Measure the piston ring gap and cylinder block bend

Feeler gauge is used to measure the bend of the cylinder block. If it is bent, the performance of the engine combustion system becomes less than optimal.

Apart from that, this tool is also used to measure the piston ring gap to fit. If the piston ring gap is too loose, it can trigger fuel leaks during the compression process. If the gap is too narrow, it can jam the piston rings, causing wear.

6. Measure the gap on the oil pump

Feeler gauge can also be used to measure the gap in the oil pump so that it is not too small or too big. Gaps that are not in accordance with the standards can cause obstacles to the flow of oil to the engine.

How to Use a Feeler Gauge

Here are some ways you can pay attention when you use a feeler gauge.

Clean the feeler gauge and the object to be measured so that there is no dirt that can reduce the accuracy of the measurement.
When you want to carry out the process of measuring objects, the feeler gauge must be inserted in a straight position so that it is accurate.
For accurate measurement results, avoid pushing the feeler gauge into the gap too deep. You only need to pull the feeler gauge steel sheet to get the right feeling whether the object gap is up to standard.

So that the gaps for each of your car's components don't change. You need to service your car regularly at the nearest Daihatsu dealer.