* Sensor damage: The cleaner can damage or foul various sensors located in the throttle body, such as the mass airflow sensor (MAF) or the throttle position sensor (TPS). These sensors rely on precise air readings, and the cleaner's residue can interfere with their operation, leading to inaccurate readings and potentially rough running or stalling.
* Gasket damage: The cleaner can dissolve or damage seals and gaskets within the throttle body.
* Clogging: While the intention is to clean, the cleaner might contain substances that could clog the tiny passages within the TBI system. This is especially true if the cleaner is not formulated for this specific application.
* Uneven cleaning: Direct injection doesn't ensure the cleaner reaches all injectors equally, potentially leading to inconsistent cleaning.
* Lack of control: Adding cleaner this way gives you no control over the amount introduced to the engine. Fuel injectors are designed to meter a precise amount of cleaner mixed with fuel. Direct injection can overwhelm the system.
The proper way to use fuel injector cleaner is to add it to the fuel tank as directed on the product label. This allows the cleaner to be properly metered with the fuel and distributed evenly throughout the fuel system, cleaning the injectors gradually during normal engine operation.
In short, while the idea might seem logical, the risks associated with directly injecting cleaner into the throttle body outweigh any potential benefits. Stick to the manufacturer's instructions for safe and effective cleaning.
