Stuck Engine Cover

[Tleahcim]

Okay, let me preface this by saying I am not in the least bit mechanically inclined so please excuse how idiotic this issue sounds. I'm using a 10mm socket to remove the cap nuts on the engine cover but the darn things just won't come off. They seem to loosen for a bit and then re-tighten as I keep ratcheting. What the heck am I doing wrong?

 

[Dr. Gonzo]

Forgive me, I have to ask the most basic question. Are you turning it counter clockwise?

Also have these been removed before? If so they possibly could be stripped.

 

[Tleahcim]

Haha, no, I am definitely turning them counter-clockwise. I was so worried I double checked. They have not been removed before, by me anyway, so hopefully they aren't stripped!