Evaluating Sea Foam “Deep Creep” Aerosol vs. Chemical Cleaners

This Tech Bulletin discusses the facts that must be considered when addressing the need for using throttle body cleaning products, in both Throttle Body Induction (TBI) and Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) systems. Specifically, which product or type of product works fast and effectively, is end-user friendly AND is safe to use on throttle body components (i.e. will not damage surfaces, bushings, sensors & coatings.)

Fact: All manufacturers have begun to use, or have a history of using “coatings” for enhancing air flow quality and for the anti-corrosive and lubricating properties afforded by these various polymer type and Teflon coatings on throttle blades, shafts and internal surfaces.

Fact: Air induction throttle bodies get dirty from air flowing into the induction system and carrying in dust & dirt particles, and from “backwash” from the engine due to aggressive valve timing, intake valve/exhaust valve overlap and camshaft centerline in relation to crankshaft. This build-up of contaminants affects useable horsepower and drivability in available modern engines, and needs to be addressed on a periodic basis to eliminate hesitations, improve engine responsiveness, and address other performance issues related to air flow. You can eliminate the dirt and residue build-up, but it will return!

How fast and effectively does a product clean a surface?

Chemical Cleaners: Clean quickly, leaves a clean, overly dry surface.
Sea Foam Deep Creep: Cleans less quickly, but leaves a clean, lubricated (i.e. protected) surface.

How Safe to surfaces, coatings, sensors?

Chemical Cleaners: Very drying, can be damaging to some items and coatings, not universally safe.
Sea Foam Deep Creep: SAFE for all throttle body surfaces, seals, coatings and sensors.
Although each technician needs to explore their own options, a product like Sea Foam that does not harm components or seals, cleans old oil/dirt residues and lubricates vital components MAY create fewer problems for his retail consumer, thus less problems for the technician, as compared to using other chemical throttle body / carburetor cleaners.