Question : Cleaning IAC

[89Hatchback]

My '89 2.8 has suddenly developed a hard start. Cranks longer than normal and I may need to give it a little throttle to get it started. Once started and settled in, it runs and idles fine. Since it seems about time for it's bi-annual TB cleaning, I checked the IAC. It seems really stiff. It won't move with the pressure I'm comfortable with putting on it and I know I've moved it in the past.

However my friendly parts store wants $110 for Delco brand. Dyam. I thought this was like a $40-60 part. By the time I add shipping, my favorite Internet parts store isn't a whole lot better.

So, any tips to freeing up the old one? Are any of the other brands any good?

TIA.

[asylummotorsports]

You can spray it with some carb cleaner/throttle body cleaner or even some brake cleaner to get some of the crap out.

[Superdave]

it should be stiff to move, but if you think it's bad then i'd just go to a junk yard and grab one off of a newer 3100/3400. It's the same part number but it'll be newer of course..

[89Hatchback]

I tried some throttle body cleaner, but since I can't move it, I don't think I got it where it needs to go.

I've replaced the IAC before - so the one in the bottom of my toolbox is likely a better candidate then the boneyard.

I was hoping that someone had a way to get the computer to work it for me while I spray it or some other technique (I think the paperclip will close it, but I don't know of anything that will make it open it.) Or maybe could tell me of some other brand that worked just as good.

[robertisaar]

if you have access to a Tech 1 or 2, you might be able to command it open and closed...

[89Hatchback]

if you have access to a Tech 1 or 2, you might be able to command it open and closed...

If I have to ask, I don't. But what is it? I'm always game for toys - if they don't cost too much.

[Superdave]

iirc they're around a grand.. lol


just plug it in and have someone turn the key to the on position, the motor should move open to about 100 steps, just make sure the plunger doesn't shoot out.

[Firehawk94]

just make sure the plunger doesn't shoot out.

And THAT my friend sucks!! Happened to me and I was like shiz!! Dang thing shot out like a rocket into my engine compartment, I couldnt find it anywhere.

[pmaniac69]

I had the same thing happen to me, I caught the thing in mid air lol