Spark plug wires very stuck on spark plugs - 1996 4.0

[sebastian323]

The spark plug wires are VERY stuck on to the plugs on my 1996 XLT. The truck came from Montana so there is moderate rust on a lot of the engine parts not typical of California cars. Is there some way to break/cut the wires off ? I have only managed to change one spark plug so far

 

[RonD]

Just twist them and/or take a long blade razor knife to cut the boot and then use a screwdriver to open it up

Picture of boot extractor here: https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51a1FITDr9L._AC_SL1164_.jpg

You can probably make a version of this for temporary use, basically you pull up on the boot from the bottom so it doesn't squeeze tighter when pulling from the end

The rubber boots are like the Chinese finger puzzles, the harder you pull from the top the tighter they get

 

[gaz]

@sebastian323 ,

I recommend using some dielectric grease on the insulators when you put the plugs in.