3800 GM Spark Plug Removal
 

I'm going to attempt a compression test tomorrow in order to troubleshoot my cyl 1 misfire. (And before anyone jumps to that, yes, I replaced all of my plugs and wires, the coil pack, and the injector.)
However, the engine is supposed to be at normal operating temp during the test.
My problem is that it takes absolutely FOREVER for me to take the rear spark plugs out. I have a boot removal tool and the correct extensions for my ratchet. I was wondering if anyone had any tips or tricks on how to quickly get to those rear plugs such as going from underneath the car, etc. I have access to a car lift, so going under the car is not an issue for me. Any help would be much appreciated. Thanks!

Really wish that Chevy would have made it easier to get to those pesky plugs... :/

Rock the motor forward. Helps A LOT

That seems like it would solve the issue of the space between the firewall and the engine being almost non existent :) THX!

I have NEVER heard of running a compression test on an engine at "normal operating temp". Here's why:
1. - Normal op temp is HOT, risk of burning yourself on parts
2. - It's not good to take plugs out while the engine is hot. All the metals expand and you run risk of messing up threads on the heads.

I would advise against having the car at operating temp. If you check the compression on all cylinders, the compression should be identical across them, regardless of temp.

Doing it cold is fine. Bit check the compression on a couple other cylinders as well so you have something to compare it to. You want them all to be within 10%