You definitely do not need to take the intake manifold off. I did it in a few hours and this was my first attempt at a DIY. You just need to take out the PVC valve. The key is to have lots of different size extensions (wobble and regular 1", 3", etc) and universal joint. Once you pop off the ignition coils (the most difficult part), getting the plugs out is a matter of dropping piece by piece your 1) spark plug socket 2) various extensions and u-joints to "build" your way out of the hole. Once you're out of the plug hole, use more extensions to wiggle your way out so you can attach your rachet. For the passenger side, I came out sideways with the rachet. For the middle and driver's side, I came out behind the intake manifold toward the firewall. Must have used about 4-5 different types of extensions, but it was real easy once the coil is out. The middle and driver's side coil have to have their electrical connectors removed, while the passenger side coil does not.