[V8] Stumped by spark plug cover bolts

[kwahaus at mac.com]

A few misc. ramblings after working on the car this weekend....

Tried to replace the VC gaskets and install new plugs this weekend but couldn't get the silly bolts off of the plug covers. The black plastic parts are long gone and the flat brass tops are showing. They appear to be serrated on the edges, so I tried some needle nose pliers but couldn't get a good grip. So what's the secret?

I also replaced the air cleaner. I'm still a bit puzzled as I had to remove the strut support to get it back on. Really?! 

Regarding my INOP blower motor, I was able to peer inside to the squirrel cage and noticed that it wasn't turning. It would spin freely when pushed with a long screw driver but would never move on it's own. Totally shot?

Fuel filter is next as soon as I find some new crush washers.

Not done much to track down and fix any leaks. Still smokes a fair bit. On my first oil change, I put in Mobil1 (which I use on most of my cars) and now the leaks may be worse. I was sort of expecting that hoping the synthetic might clean out the engine a bit. I may drain it soon and try the Valvoline MaxLife.

My INOP fuel gauge has decided to start working...sort of. It now registers about a 1/2 tank (even tho it's full) and stays there for awhile and then SLOWLY goes to empty....sits there awhile...and the SLOWLY back to about 1.2 tank. Weird.

Oh, and my front speakers worked for awhile when I played a cassette. Now only the rears work again.

Kevin