LT1 TB cleaning

[valuvan2000]

What's the correct method and cleaner for cleaning the throttle body and idle air circuit on an LT1?

 

[JAKE]

Best way, but not the quickest, is to remove the TB from the manifold and then remove the IAC from the TB. Trying to unscrew the IAC before removing the TB can be an exercise in frustration. Hard to get a tool on the IAC to loosen it while the TB is still bolted to the intake.

There's a special spray cleaner available at O'Reilly's and probably AutoZone, etc., designed specifically for cleaning the TB.

I use an old toothbrush.

In cleaning the IAC, it's best to turn it so no cleaner enters the electrical parts. I remove the pintel by pulling on it with moderate force while rocking the pintel from side to side.

Once out I clean the pintel and spring with the same spray cleaner.

Re-installing the pintel is the opposite procedure. Moderate pressure while rocking. The tip to base distance should be measured to be sure the pintel isn't extended too far after the pintel's back in place.

Some guys don't like to remove the pintel, but on my 86 and all three 96s I've removed them for cleaning.

I NEVER SUBMERGE THE THROTTLE BODY IN CLEANER OF ANY TYPE. Spray and brush is how I attack it.

Jake

West Point ROCKS!

 

[valuvan2000]

Good stuff, thanks! And thank you for your service, also.

 

[catbert]

Try just spraying with CRC throttle body cleaner before you disassemble anything. It nay work well enough to save you some time. If that doesn't work you can always take it apart.

 

[Tuna]

I've been known to spray the TB right on the car, then wipe it as clean as I can with a rag. Then I start the car, bring the RPM up to about 1500 and spray again - a little at a time - this sucks the soot and stuff down the engine. Kind of like a spit bath for the TB.

If that doesn't help, I take the TB off and clean it.

Looks like Catbert and I were typing at the same time!