How to clean throttle body actuator?

[Fireice]

I read where removal of TBA is difficult. Can it be cleaned installed?

Thanks

[Riceman1]

I would say that removal may or may not be difficult. My 95 E320 was simple what model are you working with?

[Fireice]

1993 500e

[deanyel]

Yes, it can be cleaned on the car. You buy some carb cleaner, or throttle body cleaner, take off the stuff to gain access, spray the cleaner down the throttle body, wipe where you can with a rag, so it looks cleaner. I've done this. What I don't know is whether it had any impact whatsoever on the operation of the car. But it didn't seem to hurt anything - and it made me feel better.

[Fireice]

My 500E runs a 100% better. Starts quick, no hestitation umder throttle, and no ASR when cold. I'm in love again. Although the ASR went on once when I let off the gas coming to a stoplight, aaargh. It may be due to turning up the idle previously and i'll readjust tonight.

I only took off the top portion or cylinder of the TBA and cleaned the butterfly valve and surrounding area with carb/throttle body cleaner. There was grime on the bottom of the TBA, but I don't understand how that could effect performance.

I probable saved two hours of work by not removing the entire unit. Plus a gasket covered 2 of the 4 allen bolts, which would have been a pain to cut away.

It was a great night in the privacy of my garage with the ball game on. No $1000 TBA, no $500 Wiring Harness and no $200 idle control vavle. Only time and effort and no $$$. The car runs great! For now.