2000 solara i4 - length of solid extension bar for plugs

[feniks]

hello people,

so far i've been using a flexible extension bar for my 3/8 ratchet and spark plug socket. i would like to use a solid one as it allows to torque the plugs down more precisely (you never know how much torque a flexible extension bar transfers to socket below).

problem is that design and placement of i4 (2.2L 5S-FE) engine in my 2000 Solara makes it hard. reason why i used a flexible bar in first place is that above spark plug holes is a metal crossbar going across the engine compartment. solid extensions bars i have were either too long (crossbar blocks access) or too short (plug cannot reach the thread).

and here I am asking experts which extension bar length works best for you ?

[Chinky420]

why not just unbolt the crossbar (strut tower brace?) and then use whatever you're comfortable with?


seems to me that this would be the easiest route to take.

[feniks]

it is a thought. however i'd rather keep it simple and avoid unbolting the crossbar.

[Gibson99]

i think i used a 6" extension on them when i was working at toyota. if not, then i used a wobble extension. they let you pivot about 10 degrees in the socket itself, and may give you just enough room to clear the strut tower brace.

this is what i have: http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/d ... mber=31203
just don't try to use them on an impact gun