Why Choose Wise Auto Tools for 38900/389XL Spark Plug Thread Repair Kits

When it comes to repairing spark plug threads, quality and reliability are paramount. At Wise Auto Tools, we have been dedicated to providing top-notch repair solutions since 2005. We understand that drilling into your engine can be nerve racking! Over the years, we have continually refined our products to ensure our customers receive the best possible tools for their automotive needs. Here’s why purchasing a 38900 or a 389XL from Wise Auto Tools is your best choice, especially in light of recent reviews and issues with knock-off products available on Amazon.

Verified Reviews of Amazon 38900 Knock-Offs

1. Bad Inserts
   • Reviewer: November 19, 2023
   • Rating: 1.0 out of 5 stars
   • Issue: The inserts were not fully tapped, preventing the spark plug from screwing in properly. The inserts were also too long, causing the electrode tip to barely stick out. The customer was out of the return window and very upset with their purchase.
2. Perfect Fit
   • Reviewer: June 10, 2024
   • Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars
   • Issue: The product met expectations and was delivered on time. This review highlights that even amidst many negative reviews, there are some positive experiences, although they are few and far between.
3. Nice Kit, But…
   • Reviewer: October 18, 2023
   • Rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars
   • Issue: The kit was of good quality, but the inserts were not threaded for factory-style plugs for the Ford 5.4 engine, causing significant inconvenience and requiring additional modifications.
4. Tap Broke
   • Reviewer: April 18, 2024
   • Rating: 2.0 out of 5 stars
   • Issue: The tap broke inside the cylinder, which the reviewer attributed to a manufacturing defect. This caused a major setback and additional costs.
5. Inserts Not Threaded Correctly
   • Reviewer: Various dates
   • Ratings: 1.0 to 3.0 out of 5 stars
   • Issues: Multiple reviewers reported issues with the inserts not being properly threaded, not fitting the spark plugs, or the kit missing essential parts. These problems led to significant frustration and additional expenses.

Tom's Experience with Amazon Knock-Offs

Tom, a customer from Livermore, CA, provided us with a detailed video showing the issues he encountered with a kit purchased from Amazon. The tap included in the Amazon kit was undersized, preventing the insert from threading in all the way. Tom demonstrated how the tap wobbled back and forth when threaded into a 3/4-16 nut, whereas the tap he purchased from Wise Auto Tools had no wobble and fit perfectly. This clear discrepancy highlights the quality control issues prevalent in knock-off kits. 

This is raw video from a customer that purchased a 38900 inferior kit from Amazon. Since Amazon has no knowledgeable customer service for this repair Tom called Wise Auto Tools for help. After learning from Tom that the insert would only thread in a couple of turns, we suggested purchasing a tap and an insert from us. The next alternative is moving up a size to the 389XL, but this was worth trying first since we know from speaking to many customers that Amazon's quality control for this product is not good and it was likely that he got a bad tap in the copied kit purchased from amazon. Needless to say Tom is happy and back on the road, but not to happy that Amazon allows such low quality products to be peddled on their website. Here's the article with more info on our website.

Common Issues with Inferior Knock-Off Kits

1. Inferior Taps Breaking Off
   • Several customers have reported that the taps in knock-off kits have broken off in the cylinder, causing significant delays and additional costs.
2. Improperly Sized Guides
   • The guides in these kits are often not sized properly, requiring modifications to fit. This added step increases the risk of damage and frustration.
3. Incorrectly Manufactured Inserts
   • Both the inside and outside threads of the inserts are frequently made to incorrect specifications or manufactured with dull tooling, leading to poor performance and failure.

Why Buy from Wise Auto Tools?

1. Quality Assurance
   • At Wise Auto Tools, we thoroughly inspect all tooling and inserts before they reach our customers. This rigorous quality control ensures that you receive a product that works as intended, without the frustrations reported by customers who purchased knock-off kits.
2. Experienced and Trusted Supplier
   • We have been in the business since 2005, specializing in automotive repair tools. Our extensive experience and commitment to quality have earned us a loyal customer base that trusts our products to perform reliably.
3. Improved Insert Material
   • Unlike the knock-off kits with questionable insert materials, our inserts are now treated with black oxide for enhanced durability and performance. This change addresses the common complaints about poor-quality inserts that fail prematurely.
4. Additional Tips and Support
   • Our kits include tips and detailed instructions that address common questions and concerns. These tips, which are sold separately on our website, provide invaluable guidance to ensure a successful repair.
5. Dedicated Customer Support
   • Our customer support team is always ready to assist with any issues or questions you may have. Unlike the knock-off sellers, who often leave customers without support, we are committed to ensuring your satisfaction and success with our products.
6. Solutions for Common Issues
   • Given the high failure rate of inferior kits on Amazon, we now offer the 389XL kit. This kit features a larger outer diameter (OD) and is designed to repair spark plug holes that have become enlarged due to faulty 38900 repairs. The 389XL is the largest spark plug thread repair available, ensuring a secure and lasting fix.
7. Free Fast Shipping
   • We offer free fast shipping on all our products, eliminating the need for an Amazon Prime subscription. You can get your repair kits quickly and without extra costs.
8. Sales Tax Advantage
   • We only charge sales tax in Florida, providing a cost advantage for customers in other states.
9. Positive Customer Experiences
   • Here’s a testimonial from a satisfied customer:
     • Tom, Livermore, CA: "The quality tap tool and insert that I purchased from Wise Tools worked perfectly. The insert and spark plug are now installed securely in my 1999 Ford Expedition. I was a victim of a poorly crafted tool from Amazon, but Wise Tools saved my vehicle from a trip to the scrapyard."

Choosing the right spark plug thread repair kit is crucial to avoid costly and time-consuming issues. With Wise Auto Tools, you can be confident in the quality and reliability of your purchase. Don’t risk your repair job with subpar knock-offs; trust the experts who have been delivering excellence since 2005. Purchase from Wise Auto Tools today and experience the difference for yourself.