Question: How to pull off spark plug covers

[900FE_79]

This might seem like a stupid question but as I tried to pull the plug cover off the front plugs last night I could budge them. I have never seen plug covers like the ones on my Grand Prix and the manual says you need a special tool to pull these off.

Are there any tips on how to pull the covers off, especially the back ones?

[inafogg]

What engine, What year??

[chevyguy93]

if your talking about the metal sheath, i used a screw driver and vice grips to pry them off. (note: i had to bend them back into shape afterwards :P)

[richtazz]

I have a set of 45 degree bent needlenose that I use.

[tblake]

Its not the metel shields thats holding the spark plug boots on. Dont Mutilate them!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Clamp a small vice grips to the part of the boot sticking out the back of the shield. Twist back and forth to break the boot free from the spark plug porcelin, and then they should be easy to get off!!!

[inafogg]

if you are talking about removing the plug wire from spark plug.There is a tool its about $5.Dont grab & swist/pull you'll damage plug wire.Buy the tool its much easier & can be bought at an auto store.

[Langning]

Originally Posted by inafogg

if you are talking about removing the plug wire from spark plug.There is a tool its about $5.Dont grab & swist/pull you'll damage plug wire.Buy the tool its much easier & can be bought at an auto store.

Just did my #6 spark plug last week (#1 to #5 was replaced last year and I couldn't reach #6). My cheapo spark plug puller was too "big/long" to maneuver on wire #6. This time I resorted to use a slip joint plier (similar to this one <img src="http://www.redboxtools.com/product_images/1048.jpg"> ) to grip on the rubber boot and twist & pull it out. This was with the engine pulled forward with a ratcheted vinyl strap to give my hands extra space. The old wire came out with no damage but I replaced it with new wire anyway.

Save the $5 and invest the money on a new wires.

[inafogg]

yea i agree if you need wires but what are you going to do next time replace wires again???

[BNaylor]

Regardless of whether you replace the ignition wires or re-use them be sure to use dielectric silicone grease on the insides of the plug boots spark plug side. Removal will be much easier next time around. Also, use anti-seize compound on the spark plug threads and do not over torque. Around 20-25 lb-ft.