I really hate to hear these types of stories... and as John points out, it happens a lot! :(
The problem you have is not a technical issue - it is a 'people' issue.
In your situation, you are in a position that absolutely requires the participation of the IT crew in order for you to effectively accomplish your own mission. That said, you (in your role) are the one who decides what their participation must be.
I don't mean you tell them what their job is. I mean that there are certain things relating to the overall network topology/infrastructure that will impact your mission that will (and probably should) remain outside of your scope of control/access. The troubling part of your current scenario is defining where that barrier is and getting both sides working together - as you originally posted.
Personally, when faced with similar situations I forego the 'include the suits' as my first plan. If it reaches this level, then the IT guys will almost always feel like they are being 'forced' to not only do their own work, but yours too. This is why I only 'include the suits' as a last resort. It may work, but it's the hammer aproach. And nobody likes getting hammered. (everyone save the drinking jokes please) :)
I find the 'hey, smart IT folks - help a brother out who is clearly not as wise and obviously intelligent as you guys are' approach to be far more productive.
Secretly, they probably think the statement above is true anyway - so use it.
Start with that approach, but make it clear that you want to learn as much as you can - as soon as you can - so that you aren't relying on them for everything (i.e. doing your work).
Based on your comments, it may be past the time where this approach will work optimally - your IT crew may have already formed these negative opinions of you crreating extra work for them. :(
Good thing about this approach is that it still works after the fact if played right. Follow up with a lot of 'oh, I never realized' or 'there is a lot I need to learn' type comments when speaking with IT - and make it crystal-clear that you need and want their help, but that you are committed to learning what you need to 'lighten their load' as quickly as you can. Your knowledge level will determine where the 'barrier' is. - i.e. you are the one who decides... :)
Everyone likes having their skills validated - and IT folks are no different. The more you ask, the more you can learn from them.... and the more willing they should be to help you in your mission.
Hope this helps! :)