Properly cleaning a TBI

[bigred88]

I'm done doing all the ultimate TBI modifications, but now I want to properly clean the throttle body. What solvent should I use? In the rebuild kit I bought it recommended submersing the TBI in a solvent to fully clean it, but it didn't say what solvent. I just don't want to use something that will erode the aluminum or any of the components.

Thanks!

 

[4X4HIGH]

I just use carb cleaner in a spray can, works well.

 

[ssyork]

So what TBI upgrades did you do and did they help? Thanks

 

[bigred88]

Well, I already had a 1" Throttle Body spacer on, and that did help. Now I'm doing the porting/cutting/grinding, as well as an injector pod spacer. I haven't installed those yet, though, so I don't know if it helps. Other guys on here say it does, though. I'd post the link, but I'm at work and don't have it. It's on some thirdgen.com or something like that, search through the forums here and you'll find it. Some one did a pretty good write up on how to maximize your TBI.

 

[ssyork]

Thanks for your help. As long as the o-rings are removed you could use brake clean, I buy it in bulk gallon cans instead of the spray cans. They also make an intake cleaner that is usually pretty potent.
I used to have a spacer which did help, but then i went to vortec heads and the GM performance intake to retain the TBI and it has the riser built in so the spacer is not needed. Some guys have told me to goto a big block throttle body to get the most out of vortec heads, but I haven't ponied up the money. Thought their might be soem mods I could do instead. Thanks for the help. I will look around.

 

[bigred88]

The only problem with the big block throttle body is decreased fuel efficiency, which may or may not be a problem for you. Pretty much, all you're doing by putting that on is increasing the cfm (the small block tbi is 450 cfm, the big block is 650, if I'm not mistaken). So you'll be flowing and using more gas. You'll definitely get more power, but mine's a daily driver, so that wasn't an option for me.

 

[bigred88]

one other thing- am I ok to soak it in brake clean? This thing is filthy, and I want it as clean as possilble before I put it back on.

 

[ssyork]

I would the metal parts, just no plastic or rubber. Just for a few hours then it should wipe off, if not wipe off what you can and repeat. I would just hit the plastic parts with some degreaser like simple green and wipe off with a rag. I'm always sacred to soak plastic. The rubber o-rings should be in the rebuild kit I would think.

 

[sweetk30]

why spend all the money / time / energy on 454 tbi ? get the 350 unit bored out and bolt it back on for less time / money/ hassle or wire harnness swaps and stuff.