I've been checking the forum and the Internet to try and get an idea of how I can access the throttle body (to clean it), but I really haven't found anything detailed or consistent.
I tried to access it earlier, but the air intake causes for a very tight fit. Do I have to remove the air intake all together, or can I just pull the tubing out of the throttle body.
I basically loosened all the hose/tube clamps, and tried pulling the tube out of the throttle body, but it was in there tight. Plus, the air intake (manifold?) —the square-shaped device— was like right there, so I really couldn't get the tube out.
I don't know how rough with it I can get. The whole time I was afraid of screwing something up.
Just looking for advice from anyone who's done it before.
I have a 1999 Maxima. Thanks.

Remove the air box top and air filter;

Remove the three hoses (two ~1" hoses and one ~3/8" hose) from the oil catch/baffle;

Remove the oil catch/baffle and accordion intake tube.

You now have access to your TB for cleaning.

You want to go ahead and clean your MAF as well.

Learn to remove the whole intake assembly. It's very useful for getting at a lot of things on that side. With the tools already laid out, I can get mine off in about 90 seconds.

You might want to do a little more cleaning:

If you've never done it, you'll be surprised how dirty it is in there.


EDIT: Wrong link initially posted, try this one: http://forums.maxima.org/4th-generat...g-dummies.html

How exactly do I clean the MAF? I have Throttle Body/Air-Intake Cleaner, which I'm pretty sure I can't use for the MAF. I plan on picking up a can of MAF sensor cleaner. When you say clean the MAF, you mean the sensor too, right?

Yes, simply clean/spray the sensor and give it adequate time to air dry before you re-install and go for a spin. And be sure to use a cleaner specifically designed for MAF's like you mentioned.

Buy some Mass Air Flow Sensor Cleaner:


Remove the sensor;

Place the sensor on newspaper or cardboard;

From ~ 6" to ~ 8", spray the cleaner through the sensor. Be mindful of the delicacy of the sensor wire and plate but clean it thoroughly. Spray the entire interior of the bore as well.

Flip it over. Do the same from the opposite end.

While the screen is still wet with cleaner, wipe the outside of the screen with a lint-free rag or microfiber ... the screen is actually a silver/bare color. It's not supposed to be black. Respray through the bore towards the screen to wash/remove any lint that may be adhered to the outside of the screen;

Let it dry thoroughly (~ 30 minutes);

Reinstall.

Unbelieveable post.....

Wait ... should I not be responding to these?