I have an embarrassing question about changing plus in my 1999 outback. First time I have done a 2.5 and I have read all the posts and feel like I’m ready to give it a try.

Well I can’t seem to get the plug boots off the plugs. They are tee shaped and I have tried pulling, twisting and pulling etc. I’m afraid the wire or boot might pull apart.

Any suggestion would be appreciated, it is not a good sign have trouble with the firs and very basic step.

Thanks

spark plug wire puller pliers come in handy here..or if you have a set of long reach needle I kind of leverage the needle nose on the valve cover and they usually come off pretty easily...as you mentioned though be careful because I have broken a good share of them...Both of these methods have worked for me so I would def. give them a whirl...

Last year, when I changed spark plugs in my 99 OBW, it was a bear getting the plug wires loose from the plug. Same problem as you, the plug wires were just laminated to the spark plug. I figured the plug wires were old to be that tight, so I bought a new set of plug wires. At that point, I didn't care about destroying the old plug wires for plug removal. I just ripped at them with channel locks until they either came loose, or shredded them until they pulled off. When replacing with new wires, I used the dielectric jelly (looks like Vaseline) on the ends of the spark plugs to help aid removal in the future.

 

Read the archives here about changing spark plugs. It is not an easy job. Just no room for tools, but with patience it can be done.

Usually I use hose pliers when they are that tough. I believe they were discussed in the favorite tool thread around here somewhere. Note that the "good" Sunax ones have a bit more of a bend than the generic ones at Hardbor freight. But both have their uses.

 

And you may find part of the boot permanently married to the plug.

 

So as pointed out wires will probbaly be needed. Also use anti-seize on the threads and dielectirc lube on the plugs and wires for next time.