I'm trying to replace my spark plugs on my 2003 Tahoe 5.3L engine. I can't seem to remove the boot that is over the spark plug. There is a metal housing that is over the boot however, the back of the boot is still visible. And there is enough of the boot to grab onto but, I can't seem to get the boot to come off the plug.

I've tried twisting both the boot and the metal housing and still no success at getting the boot to come off the plug. I've tried this with other boots/plugs on the engine.

Am I missing something?

thanks in advance.

 

Twist and pull harder. The plug wires will probably break and need to be replaced

 

Naaah! I just did mine tonight on my 2000 5.3 Tahoe. It was easier to first remove the plug wire at the coil side above, then work on wiggling, pulling and twisting the plug boot end. Just resist the temptation to pull on the wire. Only remove by holding the hex part of the boot. The torque value for the spark plugs is 27 nm. Then after replacing the plug, use some spark plug compound on the outside of the coil connection and then smear some on the inside of the plug boot with a screwdriver and spread around. It makes it very easy to slide the plug wires back on and also guards against water entry. Supposedly, it also forms a barrier against sparking through the connection as well. I used a small tub of MSD Ignition Spark Guard, P/N 8804.

By far, the most difficult aspect of the whole job is everything related to plug #8. It literally took longer to just do that plug than all of the others combined! Brutal! Just stay focused and persevere. It will finally happen!

 

They make a plug wire removal tool that might work if you have room to operate. I ended up using a flat screwdriver on my '93 to pry the edge of the boots up. Once you break the "seal" they should come off.
Whatever you do, don't just pull harder and break the wire. They should last you 100K miles at least. Use the grease when you re-install them.

 

Put some silicone grease in the new boots and they won't stick.