An Ignition Coil Boot is the component that delivers the voltage to the spark plug. It is the end of a series of components that connect to the distributor. The distributor is responsible for sending voltages to the spark plugs at a precise timing which is very significant in bringing life to the engine.
Internal engine problems highlights
- Level of importance:High
- Commonreasons:Mileage, poor maintenance, improper use, physical damage
- DIY inspection:Possible but may be complicated
- DIY repair:Possible, in some cases
- Price for repair:$250 - $1,500
- Can you drive?Depends on the issue
- Ways to fix:Locate the problem, outline possible fixes, replace or repair the worn-out parts
Method 1A
A way of trying to pull a stuck ignition coil boot is to use a hook tool. This is a tool that looks like an icepick bent at a certain angle to function as a hook. The characteristic that makes them apart from regular hooks is that they are made of stronger metal.
And since the ignition coil boot is stuck in the engine, then it would require a much greater amount of force to pull it out. Just as the tool name suggests, we will use the hook tool to hook the remaining coil boot. There is a certain angled hook tool that will be perfect for this job but any hook tool will work.
First, pierce a hole in the boot. It would be ideal if you can pierce the hole in the middle of the coil boot. In this way, the rubber will be stronger and will avoid tearing it resulting in a lesser grip.
Second, hook it slowly and use just enough force to lift it little by little. If we force it on the first try, the rubber might break. A twisting motion while pulling can help in loosening the grip of the ignition coil boot. Lastly, pull the coil boot and make sure that there are no pieces left attached to the spark plug.
Method 1B
If you don't have time or money to buy a new tool, this method can be an alternative to method 1A. In this method, we will need a GI Wire (Galvanized Iron Wire), or if you don't have any, a sacrificial coat hanger.
The coat hanger is basically a GI Wire molded to specifically hang clothes. A hook sturdy enough to pull a stuck ignition coil boot. So we need to form the GI wire (or a broken coat hanger) in a way that it functions as a hook. After you created a functional hook, try and hook the stuck boot little by little until it comes off.
Sometimes, if the rubber is really brittle, it will end up being torn. But do not worry, because if it tears, the less grip it has. So be sure to try and pull them with your long-nose plier. It doesn't have to be the hook method all the way. If the hook helped loosen the boot, then just pull it with the pliers.
Method 2
One of the mechanic's reliable buddies is a handy pair of pliers. There are various types of pliers. But for this instance, a long-nose plier can do the job. Just simply reach the remaining rubber stuck in the engine, get a good grip (a plier with sharper teeth will help), then pull. If it breaks again, then you need to pull again. Do this until you get the whole boot off.
An improvement of this method is using a flathead screwdriver. Push the screwdriver to the boot until it makes a dent enough to have a grip on the rubber then rotate (like a screw). This will not remove the coil boot but will help loose the grip of the rubber, making it easier to pull with a plier and coming off as a whole and not piece by piece.
Method 3
This method might be the most effective but it will require compressed air or a vacuum. However, we would be exerting force.
In this method, our goal is to shred the boot into pieces. Using a hammer and a flathead screwdriver, you will break the remaining ignition coil boot into pieces. It would be perfect if you avoid breaking the porcelain of the spark plug.
Your goal is to break the boot into manageable pieces. Some pieces are big enough to pull with a long-nose plier. For the small pieces, blow the hole with compressed air or vacuum then the powdered ignition coil boot will be removed from the engine and will be open for a new ignition coil boot.
Final words
In conclusion, these methods are used by various mechanics all around the world. If they are not enough to pull your stuck ignition coil boot, then it is recommended that you use the services of a professional.
But if you want to prevent this from happening again, you can apply silicone paste/dielectric grease to the tip of the boot. Silicone paste is known to improve heat resistance and is basically an oil that is non-conductive.
Therefore, making sure that there would not be any short circuit in the ignition coil boot considering that the involved components carry high voltages. After all, prevention is better than cure.
About the authors
The CarAraC research team is composed of seasoned auto mechanics and automotive industry professionals, including individuals with advanced degrees and certifications in their field. Our team members boast prestigious credentials, reflecting their extensive knowledge and skills. These qualifications include: IMI: Institute of the Motor Industry, ASE-Certified Master Automobile Technicians; Coventry University, Graduate of MA in Automotive Journalism; Politecnico di Torino, Italy, MS Automotive Engineering; Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, Mechanical University in Skopje; TOC Automotive College; DHA Suffa University, Department of Mechanical Engineering
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