I have just done a complete TB & MAF clean on my mk3 8v GTi...for the 1st time. After all this talk of TB cleaning, I thought I'd give it a go...I really want to start getting to know cars better and service my car myself. I enjoy technical challenges and finding out how things work...not to mention saving da dolla.
As I said, I have never done this before...it took me about 1h 45mins, it really is simple. 3 pipes, 4 Allen key bolts and a clip-off electric connector...that's all. Took the TB + the pipe connecting the TB to the air filter + the MAF (being careful to leave it mostly in-tact!) off...took em inside and a bit of WD40, elbow-grease & 4 new duster cloths later and it was gleaming inside. Put it all back together, reconnected the battery, turned on the ignition (without starting it) for 30sec then it started almost instantly. I was a bit concerned at 1st, as it seemed to idle at about 2500rpm for the 1st few seconds...but after like 10sec it was back to just under 1000rpm.
While I was pretending I am a mechanic, I changed the fuel filter...was fairly easy to do...would have been alot easier if I had a ramp...but a standard jack + an axle stand for safety did the job.
Just been to take her for a spin, and what a difference! She idles much smoother, and there is no rev drop-off when you take your foot off the gas. Before it would drop down to 700 or so revs after you take your foot off the gas (not in gear of cause)...now it goes down to about 1350 for like 3sec then down to normal 950rpm.
Over all, I am very pleased...engine seems far smoother and happier. Not bad for a bit of tinkering on a Saterday morning...only one regret through...how the hell am I going to get all this oil & grease off my hands and out from under my nails?!?!? hehe
Seriously guys, if you have the tools I strongly suggest you do this...made a big difference and so satisfying to know that YOU did it!
larrychips /out