Completely. These look like the original wires (in good shape actually) and I ordered a set of Beldens from NAPA, but I tried getting these off Sunday and failed.

I usually try to twist the boots left and right to loosen them, but some won't even do that!
Am I missing a technique for removing wires? I don't ever remember it being this hard on my previous Bonnies. :?

get one of those thin utility knives, slit the b******.

It took me a while to violently wiggle them off with those plug wire "pliers." I used REAL pliers on the back three.

The original wires can be a pain, in particular in back. Rogue and others have taken the rear engine bracket off to give a bit more room. I swear that GM glues those on. My philosophy is to not brake things while removing, but sometimes it'* necessary.

Many, many twists back and forth, and hard pulling will eventually get them. I did destroy my #6 wire in the process by using vise grips to get enough leverage. Some have split the boots, as mentioned, used pliers, or screwdrivers, whatever it takes to get them off. Boosty recommended if all else fails, brake off the porcelain of the plug with a hammer. That will stay in the boot, and you'll be able to get at the plug that is still in the engine..

These are a real pain....especially the back three. I remember taking the OEM wires off, and it took way longer than any other time. If you are replacing them, another option may be to take the thin straw that comes with penetrating oil, slide it into the small space where the boot and wire meet and try squirting some on the connector. Honestly, I think they just make the connector really tight on those wires. I would use an engine-safe oil, and clean the plug and surrounding area as well as possible before removing the plug.

I've also used a razor sharp chisel (1/4") to slice down the side of the boot really carefully.

I wouldn't RECOMMEND either of these approaches. I would give some more tries by getting on top of the engine for the back 3, and wiggling back and forth while you pull. Be careful of your hands- they will get banged, I guarantee it.

Good luck!

I had a bit of fun trying to get at the plugs while Tracy was putting on her wire covers. It appears that the right position and route to get to the plugs is key and removing the brackets helps.

When I suggested breaking the plugs, I did test a few of them on bad engines at a buddies shop. All of them broke off and when removed, nothing from the inside of the plug had broken and fallen into the cylinder. I do suggest it as a last resort though.

Yeah, My rear 3 haven't gotten done yet...I still can't get my rear 3 wires off. The AC delco iridium plugs I am putting in are the same as the ones coming out... they don't look too bad... but now that I have 3 new ones in, I kind of want to finish the job....

It'* one of those things that sress me out when i think of all the outstanding things I need to do.

Keep at it withthe twisting turning and pulling. They are a bitz.

I like this idea the best so far. I'd hate to take a hammer to my engine.

Yeah, mine were original when I changed my plugs. Every one was pretty much glued on, but got every single one off with twisting and every ounce of strength in me, and I'm not real weak. Still managed to reuse them though. You just have to realize where the plug clip is and then twist it off from right there. They always pop right off. Basic reasoning that I can see is that the plug clips basically get forged over time, super hardened because of the repeated hot cold, hot cold changes.