Plug wires retaining clips

[rider68]

I just replaced the wires on my wifes 95 Blazer and the biggest problem I found was trying to unlatch the various wire retaining clips, especially the ones with the opening side toward the firewall. Is there an easy way of unlatching these things without breaking them off? Or do people just replace them or go without them? I like having the wires neatly located, but man what a pain.

[OverBoardProject]

Just carefully twist them.

I've seen some come with a grease, but not in a few years. I think that they intended it to be used on the insolators which I believe is usually what sticks.

The best way to stop them from sticking is just give them a twist from time to time when checking the fluids

[rider68]

It looks like you think I'm talking about the plug caps... that's not it. I'm talking about the 7 or 8 wire standoffs between the plugs and the dist. cap. Some are 3 wire holders, some 2 and even a couple I think are 1. They have a base part with wire channels at the end of a metal bracket which is fastened to the block and a hinged top part that clips shut over the wires holding them neatly in line. I found it to be a bear trying to unlatch the hinged top because you have to somehow squeeze the little end "tooth" back through the mating opening. There has to be a decent way to open these things. SOMEONE PLEASE HELP. I'll post a picture if that will make it clearer. We have 2 Blazers and I have an Astro van too with the same motor.

Originally Posted by OverBoardProject

Just carefully twist them.

I've seen some come with a grease, but not in a few years. I think that they intended it to be used on the insolators which I believe is usually what sticks.

The best way to stop them from sticking is just give them a twist from time to time when checking the fluids

[Rmbodie]

I used a small screwdriver to insert into the locking part to pry mine open . But after a many years of baking in the heat , they become brittle . It could give you an excuse to buy some crome dress up holders . Rob

[Southern Comfort]

What I do when ever I have to take those clips apart to change the spark plug wires is, I take my wife's hair dryer and heat them a while, this makes them softer and less likely to break them. Once you have them open, place a little vaseline on the locking portion of the retaining clip. I never have a problem opening mine now.
I know it's a little time consuming, but it's worth it if you want to keep them in proper working condition. They are use to keep the sprark plug wires away from metal surfaces and reduce an spark to ground.
Thanks
SC

[drdd]

Originally Posted by rider68

I just replaced the wires on my wifes 95 Blazer and the biggest problem I found was trying to unlatch the various wire retaining clips, especially the ones with the opening side toward the firewall. Is there an easy way of unlatching these things without breaking them off? Or do people just replace them or go without them? I like having the wires neatly located, but man what a pain.

I gently used a large screwdriver. Wedge it into the clip and gently twist. I managed to not break any ...