So my car is almost 10 years old, and I know it doesn't perform like it did at it'* peak. Question is, what has happened, and what is easy to change to get it back to its optimum operation? I assume filters and fluids...they're done. Now what else-- Specific sensors? Wiring? Sub systems???

i always say it....clean the throttle body

i cleaned mine again this weekend, i can do it in under an hour now! it didn't really improve my performance much this time cause it had only been a year since the last time.

Dude mine is filthy! Is it as easy as removing a few bolts and then putting it back or will things splash out in my face?

Things may splash, There'* a coolant port there. Probably not though, I think the pump may have to be running to get it that high... Get a new gasket, They're like $8 at autozone.

well since no one is adding thoughts, i'll repeat what i've heard and am considering doing

plugs and wires
o2 sensor
sway bar bushings


cnerd--it won't splash, just leak a little bit coolant on top the trans. if you don't like this, park on the side of a hill with the driver'* side uphill

Is there a preferred/specific way to clean the throttle body? Tips please!

I'd also like to hear about how to clean a TB properly. But, for the matter at hand, if it hasn't been done recently :

Change your 02 sensor, and then reset your PCM. I just did mine, and with probably the full 102K miles on it, it made as large of a difference as putting my intake on yesterday did. Crisper throttle response, more power at the bottom and tops of gears, smoother idle (still not perfect though ), just plain better in general.

Best part is that it'll probably only cost you $30-$40 for the sensor (buy AC Delco, not Bosch), and another $5-$10 for the socket to pull it off.

Lastly, here'* a thread with some other ideas :

http://www.bonnevilleclub.com/forum/...ic.php?t=24258

My mpg on my 94SE with 122K is dropping some. I did replace O2 sensor a few months back but I've seen on the forum the desirability of cleaning the throttle body and resetting the PCM. Plugs are good and air filter recently changed. Performance seems good but MPG lower than I'm used to.

I use Techron periodically but can someone tell me specifically how to clean the TB and how to reset the PCM? Car is all stock.

Thanks,

Mike Morehouse
Alabama

Throttlebody instructions:
http://www.geocities.com/rivierareso...ecleaning.html

However:
1. its easier to remove the maf sensor after you remove the TB
2. remove the idle air controller and scrub that passageway really well. This is where idle roughness comes from.
3. if you've never replaced the TB gasket before, you MUST do so. the new ones are redesigned and much better.

Just a couple notes:

1. Remove the TB COMPLETELY from the car. Don't clean it in your engine bay. Some of the chemicals in cleaning agents may react with other seals/wires etc. in the engine bay. Paint, also.
2. The "IAT" referenced on that page is actually the IAC.
3. Not all TB gaskets are re-usable, so make sure to buy a new one. It may be fiber or plastic depending on year.
4. Do NOT use carb cleaner on your TB, even with the MAF sensor removed! EVER! If it isn't totally dry when re-assembled (and there are alot of little passages that can trap fluid), you can kill not only your MAF sensor, but maybe even your O2. Unless you own a carbureted car, don't even BUY carb cleaner. Intake safe cleaner only.
5. Rubbing alcohol on a Qtip will substitue for contact cleaner on the MAF sensor.
6. Depending on year, your MAF sensor may not be torx.