I cleaned the throttle body on my 2002 4runner for the first time the other day and what a difference it has made! I dont feel like I am even driving the same car. The biggest difference I have seen so far is that my car coasts after I take my foot off the gas pedal, before the speedometer needle would immediately drop now it stays in the same spot.

The reason I am posting this is to get others to try this simple procedure. It only takes about 30 minutes to do and the results may be surprising.

Here is a link to the excellent writeup by Bob_98SR5:
https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f128/throttle-body-cleaning-3rd-gen-4runner-76368/

 

Yep its a good thing to do every once in a while for sure.

I still dont understand why people are against using the Chemtool carb cleaner though. I've been using it for years in all my Toyota's and never had problems.

 

Is there something special about Chemtool carb cleaner as opposed to other intake cleaners?

 

Is it better to take the TB off or leave it on when you clean it? If you take it off is there a gasket that should be replaced?

 

What kind of cleaner did you use TxDox?

 

If you're comfortable taking it off, then you can definitely get it cleaner than by leaving it on. There _is_ a gasket between the TB and the intake plenum, but it's reusable.

In FACT! Look at the opening of it - if it looks like a "D" then note how that will block airflow into the plenum. Grab yourself a carpet knife or a box cutter, put the gakset up against the TB and cut it open to fit.

You just did one version of the "O" gasket mod. Good for about 1 1/2 additional PSI of boost if you have a supercharger, and it definitely doesn't hurt if you're N/A!

 

I did not remove my throttle body

I used the 3M throttle body cleaner that I found at my local auto parts store. I would definitely recommend using an old toothbrush to reach and scrub the inside.

 

How many miles on your 02 when you cleaned the TB? I just did mine at 50K and I didn't notice much difference. I also did not see much build up inside. Just a little V shaped deposite behind the butterfly valve.

 

I have just under 60k

 

Its just the most widely available around here. I see it everywhere.

I've heard from mechanics to use it on your TB to clean it out.

But, then, I've read here from other members "NOT TO USE CARB CLEANER" on your TB...I just wanted to know the reasons WHY, because I have not yet found one !