I have an S5 n/a intake that I will be installing soon - wanted to clean it out before putting it on as there is a decent amount of gunk inside. Couldn't find much in searches so I figured I'd ask it straight up.

What are some good methods for cleaning out the intake manifold?

I'm not too keen on media-blasting, at least for internals, as it seems it would be nearly impossible to get all the media out. Perhaps some specific cleaning agent and some magical bendy brush ?

 

for years i usually used kerosene with some wet/dry sandpaper and hard toothbrushes. then i would finish with detergent and water.

these days i've added wire brushes, Simple Green and some commercial degreaser (some stuff i found at Harbor Freight) to my arsenal. it takes a LOT of time though if the parts are really filthy and greasy. funnily enough, i went to price a media blasting setup today because i like the results that blasting yields.

 

Make sure I clarify - how to clean the inside of an intake manifold - not sure how to get through all those sexy curves of the s5 VDI intake

 

oops! forgot your car is fuel injected. my original response was for cleaning the 12A manifolds. for the fuel injection manifolds, i use the same cleaning products, but i also use pipe cleaners since my fingers alone can't do the plenums and runners like the short and simple 12A.

 

Ah - nice one, for some reason didn't think of that. Some good brewing pipe cleaners should do the trick nicely!

Thanks for the input!

 

Just picked up a .5", 1" and 2" "Bottle brush" - definitely doing the trick. WD-40, simple green, and a plastic bristle brush also in the mix

 

I use Brake cleaner...like 1001 uses that stuff!
Tip: if you really get greasy hands,grab the can of Brake cleaner and spray on your hands..Rub them together and wipe.It's amazing!

 

Brake cleaner or carb cleaner is prefered as it will clean the carbon. Get some bottle brushes so you don't have to stick your fingers inside

 

no worries, Bro. glad to hear you're getting it done.

 

Dip it in some muriatic acid for a few seconds and then run it under water it will be like brand new, note this is strong acid so use appropriate measures.

 

ok WOW - forget simple green or anything else.

+10 for the brake cleaner!!!!

I dern near don't even have to scrub with this stuff. i spray it through and brown lung butter goo's out the other side, revealing delicious frosted silver clean-ness.

 

Take a piece of aircraift cable around 18 inches long. Place a wrap of electrical tape around it about 6" down, then fray the end of the cable.
Chuck the other end of the cable into your hich speed drill.
Insert the cable into your runners, squeeze the trigger, and let the frayed end scrub the inside of your runners. I usually use Tolulene as a solvent.
Very cheap, and very fast.

 

i normally use brake cleaner and kero for the majority, but for the last little bit WD40 seems to do the trick. I also use pipe cleaners for the points i cant reach.

Havent ever thought of using a cable. thats an awesome idea ill use in the future!