I'm putting this in a separate thread because it is general information that someone else may be searching for. (In general, I will always do that. It is an old UseNet rule to start new threads for new topics.)

I am planning to overhaul my throttle-body. After cleaning the thing with throttle-body cleaner, it will be devoid of any lubrication whatsoever. I was thinking it might be a good idea to put a drop of oil on the points where the throttle-valve-shaft rotates in the throttle-body. I already know not to use any silicone lubricants because that might mess up the oxygen-sensor. But what about some other light oil or just regular engine oil?

 

I use olive oil/vegetable oil on certain applications....(when I ran out of all else)

I searched this: SLIP-IT silicone free tool lubricant web only I think.

And for loosening nuts/bolts.....vegetable oil with 10% acetone

 

mercedes specifies using ATF on the throttle linkage and pivots for 80s/90s kinda cars.

 

Well, Pierce, my car is in bad shape but I don't think I am ready to start drinking and smoking, let along shooting at the thing.

Um, ...

Never mind. I got it. Automatic Transmission Fluid. Is that because it is made to handle high temperatures?

 

I think they spec that because its a clean oil. really, any light oil is probably fine. engine oils have a lot of additives specific to engine use (detergents and friction modifiers and so forth). I'd be as likely to grab my little dropper bottle of Tri-Flow that I use on bicycle parts for this

 

With the amount of oil consumption in a car (due to cylinder blow by and the PCV system), I would say engine oil would be great. Not that the previouly mentioned stuff is bad either.

 

ya know, I don't think I've ever heard of lubricating throttle shafts. if they are too worn, they need to be replaced. usually that means a new carb or throttle body. but these volvo ones last a long long time.

 

Pierce, you do realize that we lubricate things to help prevent them from becoming too worn, right?

 

bronze bushing type mechanisms are self lubricating. our 240 has over 400K miles and the LH throttle body is still AOK.

I suspect any lube in there would get diluted with the gas vapors and sucked into the engine in short order.

 

I put a little oil/grease on all pivot points--friction wears components regardless of what they are made of...

How many don't ever lube the Volvos doors spring hinges resulting in them sounding like dungeon gates and eventually breaking? Mechanics don't do it since there is no $ in it, it's the kind of thing an owner should do routinely...

 

I do wish the door hinges had a zerk fitting for squirting in grease. lubing from the outside always seems unproductive.