Spark plug boot pullers

[cowboy73]

I know they make different kinds. Which styles should I add to toolbox? Budget friendly if possible,

 

[joe_padavano]

I know they make different kinds. Which styles should I add to toolbox? Budget friendly if possible,

I have several. Bottom line is that no matter which one I try, there's something in the way (steering shaft, A/C compressor bracket, whatever) that prevents me from using one.

 

[Jeeper]

I have had the best luck with a right angle pick. Destroys them but does the trick on the baked on backside V6 plug boots. I am of the opinion that if my hand can't get them off, then no puller will be able to without damage so I just expect to replace them.

 

[ken w.]

I have to agree with Jeeper. I have a few of them and don't like any of them. I feel if your going to replace your spark plugs you might as well throw a set of wires on too. Just remember to put some dielectric grease on the inside if the boot for next time.

 

[sberry]

I got a couple, sometimes its the trick and one is a simple plastic thing that cost 3 or 4$ I think, another a pair of plier style and neither is perfect but useful at that price.

 

[4x4gearhead]

I have a straight craftsman pair that have done me just fine, I bought a 45 deg pair at one point and have only had to use them once or twice, even on buick 3.8L. I dont do tune-ups all the time but Ive done my share. When it comes to overhead cam engines I usually just use long needle nose as I am replacing the wires generally anyways.

 

[1949 caddyman]

Find one that fits the location in the vehicle the best, you may need different ones for different plug locations. Also twisting the boot to break the seal before pulling helps. With most plugs now at 100K replace time its a good idea to replace wires at same time as some wires can be damaged during removal with nothing visable. You find about it on the test drive.

 

[G1GRANDEUR]

OP, you work at shop or just at home?

I personally never needed boot pliers, Just use 45' angle pliers or they are coil packs.

 

[Jagmandave]

I have a set like this, but I can't even remember the last time I used them....

 

[signcrafter]

I have a few different ones also I have bought used. I have a straight and 45 degree pair and a "mini" pair that works pretty good. Even with these I've still had some front wheel drive cars that the back plugs were really stuck on there.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0014WIUQY/?tag=atomicindus08-20

http://www.tooltopia.com/thexton-334.aspx

 

[theoldwizard1]

Just remember to put some dielectric grease on the inside if the boot for next time.

Amen, brother !

 

[retrobuilder]

I bought one similar to the red tipped one above. Purchased the Autocraft tool which was useless- I ended up just using an angled "vise grip" and pry bar. Tore the rubber then grabbed the metal contact. This was on a Ford V6. Like someone said- when you replace the wires- use some dielectric grease to new boot for next time..plus helps displace water intrusion.

 

[bonneyman]

I have had the best luck with a right angle pick. Destroys them but does the trick on the baked on backside V6 plug boots. I am of the opinion that if my hand can't get them off, then no puller will be able to without damage so I just expect to replace them.

Would these be like the ones like on a V6 Buick? You need to undo the front motor braces and pry the engine forward 2-3 inches to get enough room for your hand in the back? A tuneup may be in my future, and I'm trying to get psyched up for it.

 

[Plombob]

I like the Thexton 334 best.

 

[Jeeper]

Would these be like the ones like on a V6 Buick? You need to undo the front motor braces and pry the engine forward 2-3 inches to get enough room for your hand int he back? A tuneup may be in my future, and I'm trying to get psyched up for it.

Yep, I did the pry engine forward trick. You have room but the plug boots are baked on at 75k miles. I couldn't figure out how one would remove them without wrecking them. Wasn't really an issue for me since I was replacing them.

 

[bonneyman]

Yep, I did the pry engine forward trick. You have room but the plug boots are baked on at 75k miles. I couldn't figure out how one would remove them without wrecking them. Wasn't really an issue for me since I was replacing them.

Yeah, I'm assuming I'll just be replacing the plug wires along with the plugs, but, I just thought that "prying" the engine forward was web myth.

 

[Jeeper]

Yeah, I'm assuming I'll just be replacing the plug wires along with the plugs, but, I just thought that "prying" the engine forward was web myth.

Nope, It's real. If I remember right you have to have it in neutral or the front wheels up because they will turn a little.

 

[1949 caddyman]

Some of the GM cars had an extra hole in the dog bone mount that you put the bolt in after rocking the engine forward with the trans out of park. This kept the engine safely secured.