Yeah, I tried to get boot pliers in there, too - with the same results. For 2 & 4, I put my arm through under the alternator and under the hoses. It'* amazing, trying the twist and pull, just how far the wire end of that boot will turn without breaking loose the plug end of it.

I don't normally do this, and recommend it only as a last resort as it will destroy the wire. After trying for the longest time to get 6 out, I finally in frustration clamped a set of vise grips at the top of the boot to give me the leverage I needed to pop it off. If you do that, be very careful not to crush the metal heat shield that is over the boot. I was replacing the wires anyway so, it wasn't a big deal if it destoyed it. I don't like any method that destroys what I'm taking out, even if I'm going to replace it. So, use that advice with caution