Take the engine cover off and lean over farther.

However just remembered that I don't have a strut bar, but I don't think this matters much

my engine bay is not filthy either

 

I'm sure you haven't taken it through 4 new england winters during your 92,000 miles of daily driving either.The pristine condition of the engine bay suffers easily when you are actually driving it more than a minute at a time. But, i would regret not having the daily joy and wonderful memories, given up in an effort to keep it clean.

And no, even with the cover off, i can't fit my hand down alongside the wires. Perhaps i could if the wires were removed, but then, i'd be closer to the plug from another direction just to remove them. Even if i could, i'd still prefer (physically) sitting next to the car running extensions behind the wheel than leaning over the fender and down.

 

the only time I encountered and issue reaching in there was when installing a BHR ignition on a car that had some extra wires running through there and also an RB water temp sensor on the heater hose in the same area. I still didn't have much problem other than a few scratches from not having my arms protected with a long sleeve shirt

 

I'm an ex-mechanic, so I happen to have about a dozen different types of spark plug sockets. The pic I linked are my absolute favorite. Also, a similar set that has a double swivel on it.

As already pointed out, you don't need to jack up the car. And I've removed plugs both ways, and imho, it's much faster and easier from the wheelwell.

 

you just have to put your mind set on, "I CAN do this, this way"

when i first got my rx8(with a blown engine) i pulled the bottom plugs from the top..with just a regular ratchet and socket..... didn't know how much easier thru the wheel well, or underneath was gonna be, i was just used to doin' all my rx-7s from the top.

OP, i think your gonna be fine with the advice already given...

 

I've done it every way imaginable and respectfully disagree. You didn't state how you were getting the boots off either. Just the same, whatever way works best for you is what I'd recommend for you.

 

Reach through the wheelwell and pull them off by hand.

But yeah, you are right... To each their own.

 

Twist the boots left to right,or right to left, as you would do a radiator hose. Is that right @ Team