Has anyone here eliminated the metal boot protectors from their spark plug wires? Did that affect the boot life? Thinking about tossing mine because they are such a pain to get the wires off with these *$%@ darn metal protectors.
(this is from my '01)

They protect the boot from the heat of the exhaust manifold, so yes...tossing them will affect the boot'* life.

Well, I'm still wondering though if anyone else just tossed them and how adverse the effect was. If it was really bad, I may just get a good set of aftermarket wires.

I haven't seen anything on the board where someone has stated that they have removed them. The potential for significant deterioration of the boots, in particular on the back plugs where the temperatures are higher is certainly there. It is a PITA to get the boots off. in particular if silicone grease wasnt used on those boots. The first time I changed mine after I bought the car, I had a heck of a time getting the back ones off. I lubed the new wires up well with the dielectric grease, and they're much easier to take off.

I tossed mine when I went to the after market wires. I have not had any issues without but my wires are rated to 600 Degrees.

I was going to toss mine and use a set of asbestos ones from napa. At $18 a pair I changed my mind but they would have looked real nice.

Thanks for everyone'* input - I was thinking of going with either KEM or MSD wires - any preferences out there?

BTW..Toasty tossed his..

yes i did. no issues 15k or so miles later

The Belden premium wires that NAPA carries is a favorite of many.