I have a 97 F150 with the 4.6 V-8 and have just spent half a day pulling the spark plug boots on the right bank. I thought the left bank would be easier since you can actually see three of the plugs but they are buried under the fuel rails and stuck like everything. There must be a tool or trick to this. Has anyone tried spraying something like silicone or WD-40 on the boots before removing them or know of a slick tool that would induce less swearing?
Thanks, redwrench

I had the same problem with my #5 and #4 boots. i was able to get #5 out with boot pliers and alot of force. #4 was a whole diffent story. had to use dental picks to pull it out cuz i broke the top part and pulled the wire out. pain in the a**

I used channel locks to get them out, when you replace them use a little dielectrical grease on there to prevent it from happening again.

I'm beginning to think the best approach is to replace the wires, that way I can get animal with them. I discovered that the wires do slide in the boots as I had #3 keep coming loose. I found the wire had pulled up into the boot and wasn't locking onto the top of the plug. I was able to pull it back down but I don't have much confidence in it now.

Use Di-Electric Silicone Grease in the boots and your problems will be solved.