cleaning the IAC

[avexhype]

I need to clean my IAC motor. I have a bottle of automotive electronics cleaner laying around can i use that to clean the IAC? or do i HAVE TO buy carb cleaner? thanks

 

[lvmustanggt]

I clean it with brake cleaner and it worked fine but I change with new one later on.

 

[streethorse]

As has been said time after time here.... cleaning the IAC is only temporary.
Time for a new ford IAC.

 

[avexhype]

i know its temporary but as long as it works till i get paid in 2 weeks.

 

[fudleyd]

As has been said time after time here.... cleaning the IAC is only temporary.
Time for a new ford IAC.

+1

Most people that clean end up replacing it in the long run, but it will prob get you through to your next payday.

 

[DTNODYA]

3M Throttle Body Cleaner and Q-Tips.

The IAC on my truck has been 'bad' for 2 years now. I clean it twice a year and don't have any issues. I know people who have already bought two in the past two years. Unless something is broken with it, cleaning it is all you need to do.

 

[mransr]

I clean mine about once a year...it's too new to replace, only has 189,000 miles on it

 

[avexhype]

cleaned it with carb cleaner i borrowed from a friend. it did NOTHING. iacOWNEd lol

 

[Killa]

I heard that you have to clean it with wd-40 then card cleaner, then wd-40 again. That how I did mind and it fine.

 

[avexhype]

you know what that makes sense since moving parts need lube. ill try that too thanks

 

[d98gt]

Mine has acted up ONCE and I cleaned it and have yet to have a problem. This was 2-3 years ago so I wouldn't say you would 100% have to go out and buy a new one.

 

[2000fordstanggt]

ive heard that if you neglect to replace your pcv valve that it will make the iac go bad faster.

 

[avexhype]

how much is a new pcv valve

 

[2000fordstanggt]

how much is a new pcv valve

about $9 from the dealer. this is another one where the aftermarket counterpart isnt as good. so i would get it from your dealer and not autozone.

 

[nyuk98gt]

avexhype:

Contact cleaner will work OK. The routine is spray, brush, tap, repeat. You need a Q-Tip or small brush to get the "dirt" out of the IAC. Tapping it on the workbench helps to dislodge the stuff. You will be amazed at the volume of dirt that comes out. Do not spray up into the solenoid (it doesn't get dirty, lol). Try to clean all the dirt off the shaft and tip because it is metering air into the engine and if the shaft hangs up, the air flow will not be right for idle control (and other things). Watch that you do not tear the gasket when removing the IAC valve. Replace the gasket if there is a tear or you will have problems.

GL,

Chris