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Feb 2, 2004 | 01:40 AM

#16

88bronk

Junior User

Joined: Dec 2003

Posts: 65

Likes: 0

The first time I cleaned my IAC, I was told to use carb cleaner. I didn't have any on hand so I used WD-40. It worked, but I had to do it again within a month. I used Gumout carb cleaner and lubed it with WD-40 and had to do it again. I don't remember which I used the last time but it has lasted a few years. Later a small engine mech told me that WD-40 would gum up over time. I believe this is true because I used WD-40 on a rusty feeler guage and let it soak for 2 or 3 months. It was really gummed up. Why should you not use carb cleaner?

Last edited by 88bronk; Feb 2, 2004 at 01:44 AM.

Feb 2, 2004 | 05:43 AM

#17

BigRedBronc

Senior User

Joined: Dec 2003

Posts: 404

Likes: 0

From: Groton, CT

EFI components within the throttle body and IAC are coated to promote airflow and prevent excessive deposits. Carb cleaner eats this coating off. Additionally, carb cleaner is meant for metal, not plastic. The IAC (which also contains an electric motor) and TPS will sustain damage if you use carb cleaner. You may have gotten away with it once, but there are enough of us out here who have learned the hard way. If you check your haynes manual they caution against using carb cleaner, but we often don't listen. After replacing a melted TPS and a seized IAC I believe.

When you use WD-40 to clean these things, you cannot just squirt it and hope it will evaporate like carb cleaner. You use the WD-40 to clean it, and then you get the stuff out of there. You will end up with a very thin film left, if you do it right, and the WD-40 will not damage your components. If you must use a cleaner, use Throttle Body cleaner.

Last edited by BigRedBronc; Feb 2, 2004 at 05:47 AM.