Hey guys,
First time posting on this forum...Have done quite a bit of work to my 01' Dodge Ram 1500 5 Speed 5.2L V8...But I'm changing my spark plugs and I CANNOT get the boots off...Any ideas? I've been around the forums and youtube etc. but these things just aren't coming off!

 

You could take a pair of pliers and pull the spark wire till it comes loose from the metal piece that connects to the spark plug. Then take some needle noose pliers and pull that metal piece off the plug.

I've had to do it this way before. Not by choice, but it works in a pinch.

 

So you're saying pull the wires out of the boots? It's crazy how big the heat shield is...it goes to the top of the boot and I read on some other Forums that guys just took the heat shield off but those But Mine aren't budging

 

Yup. Usually the wire can be re-attached to the boot so it can be used again. If taking off the heat shield gives you better access and you can get the heat shield off/back on easily it'd be worth a try.

My wife drives an 02 Buick Century V6, which is front wheel drive so the engine is mounted sideways, front plugs are EASY, back plugs are a pain. I had to use pliers to get them off. There isn't much room to work either.

 

Great thanks for the info...Of course I've run out of time today now, but I will attempt again tomorrow, I guess I'll be prepared to buy a new set of wires JUST incase I totally screw the pooch on this...But I will give that a shot...thanks for the info I appreciate it!

 

I learned this trick purely by accident too.

 

Good plan, replace the wires anyway. And route them according to this.

http://dodgeram.info/tsb/1998/18-48-98/18-48-98-v8.htm

 

Awesome, thanks for the diagram Zman, The latest year that diagram shows is the 99 I assume the 01' isn't to far off from that though, is that correct?

 

All magnums should have their wires routed per the TSB to prevent induction surges between wires. Some people even notice a smoother idle after routing their wires this way. I believe that I've read that updated wire clips are available from the dealer too, but they are not necessary.

Codycch, don't forget to use anti-seize on the plug threads before you install them, and just a dab of dielectric grease inside the boots, to prevent them from sticking next time. Permatex makes both of these greases, and they have them at most parts stores.

Also, i've found it beneficial to gently twist the rubber boot on the plug to break it loose before I remove it. Don't go crazy with it, just break it loose.

 

+1. I always torque the plugs to spec also.