I can't get the steel braided cable unhooked from the slave cylinder. Is there a special tool to break this loose? Working on a 2000 ls1 camaro.

 

I believe its a "quick disconnect" connection. So you will probably need the correct size quick disconnect tool.

 

no tool. just press in the plastic part and pull it out
It's supposed to disconnect.
The idea is exaclty the same as the fuel line rail quick disconnect, but the tool you'd use is built in via the plastic piece.
I unscrewed the line from my master when I took my tranny out, because sometimes quick disconnects are a PITA especially in cramped places like the tranny line.

 

Just push in the white plastic part with two screwdrivers and pull out. Also if you have a 3/8 fuel line disconnect also works.

 

^ Yes, this is what you do. It might take a little wiggling to get the thing out once the plastic piece is pushed in, but it will come out.