C4 Tech/Performance L98 Corvette and LT1 Corvette Technical Info, Internal Engine, External Engine

Stubborn TBI gasket

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Old Aug 5, 2011 | 11:23 AM
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Default Stubborn TBI gasket

So I'm removing the TBI to clean it and the IAC. Problem is, I can't get the flippin' TBI off...the seal/gasket is rock hard and won't budge.

I've tried brute force (hands only), gently tapping it with a rubber mallet and yelling at it - but it still won't budge. Are tips on what I can try, without damaging anything ofc I plan on trying to cut/weaken the gasket with a razor blade, but I doubt I'll be able to reach enough of the gasket that way.

Cheers!
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Old Aug 5, 2011 | 05:20 PM
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Sounds like a PO may have used some sort of gasket adhesive on it.

If you score the top of the gasket with a razor blade or box knife, spray a small amount of throttle body cleaner where you cut. Brake parts cleaner will work too. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes then try tapping the front edge of the TB. Keep trying until the TB pops off.

If there is any adhesive, clean it off with a solvent. Re-install the TB with a dry gasket and tighten the 4 bolts to spec in an "X" pattern.
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Old Aug 5, 2011 | 06:40 PM
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Great, thanks for the info - I'll give that a shot tomorrow

Btw, while on the topic of TBI - is it safe to use carb cleaner to remove deposits in the TBI or do I have to use TBI-specific cleaner? Reason I'm asking is that I now live in Norway and finding TBI cleaner is, well - not the easiest thing in the world
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Old Aug 5, 2011 | 08:11 PM
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Carb cleaner will be fine. A good gasket scraper or putty knife with a beveled edge and a tap of a hammer will get the throttle bodies off easily.
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Old Aug 5, 2011 | 08:44 PM
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Originally Posted by 383vett
Carb cleaner will be fine. A good gasket scraper or putty knife with a beveled edge and a tap of a hammer will get the throttle bodies off easily.
Ah, good idea - I'll give it a shot with a putty knife before I start spraying chemicals on the outside.

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Old Aug 5, 2011 | 10:25 PM
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Originally Posted by 383vett
Carb cleaner will be fine. A good gasket scraper or putty knife with a beveled edge and a tap of a hammer will get the throttle bodies off easily.
As long as the car isnt running carb cleaner will work. Lots of carb cleaners arent good for sensors. Once you get it off use what you want.
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Old Aug 6, 2011 | 05:19 PM
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Finally got the TBI off this evening - had to score the gasket, use carb cleaner and rubber hammer to get it off

Btw, I took the IAC out and wow - that sucker was bogged down in carbon deposits! I'm hoping this is the source of hesitation and stalls at idle that I've had...

The inside of the TBI and the intake plenum was much of the same. I've gotten the TBI cleaned and ready to go with a new IAC - but I'm wondering how to clean the plenum (if necessary...) Can I simply spray carb cleaner in there now that I have the TBI off - or is there another preferred method of doing this?

Thanks!
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