Zip Tie Intake Valve Cleaning – Does It Actually Work or Damage Your Engine?

Many people recommend cleaning intake valves using a zip tie attached to a drill, claiming it’s a cheap and effective solution. In this video, I test this method properly and explain why zip tie intake valve cleaning is risky and not recommended.

I show the real results, the damage it can cause, and the technical reasons behind it—based on engine design, valve operation, and real-world outcomes.

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🟡 CRC Intake Valve Cleaner: https://amzn.to/44nQIne
🌰 Walnut Shell Media (18-40 Grit): https://amzn.to/4iNXgSP
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🧼 Throttle Body Cleaner: https://amzn.to/4fxe79Z
💨 6.3 Gallon Air Compressor: https://amzn.to/3P765JR
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Right way cleaning with walnut:    • SUPER Clean intake valves with this simple...  
Cleaning with CRC intake valve cleaner:    • Used CRC Intake cleaner, and here is what ...  

⚠️ Why Zip Tie Intake Valve Cleaning Is a Bad Idea: Does It Actually Work or Damage Your Engine?

🔹 Poor Cleaning Results
The zip tie does not clean evenly. Instead of removing carbon buildup, it scratches the surface and leaves carbon deposits behind.
🔹 Risk to Valve Seats
If the valve is even slightly open, the rotating zip tie can contact the valve seat, potentially scratching it. This can lead to compression loss and sealing issues.
🔹 Uneven and Uncontrolled Cleaning
With a drill, you cannot precisely control where the zip tie contacts the valve. This leads to random impact points and inconsistent cleaning.
🔹 Broken Zip Tie Pieces (High Risk)
Small plastic fragments can break off during cleaning. If a piece gets lodged behind the valve or between the valve and seat, it can cause serious engine problems once the engine is running.
🔹 False Sense of Success
Some before-and-after results may look acceptable at first, but the long-term risks outweigh any short-term appearance improvement.

🛠️ Important Clarification:

The valve stem seal is not visible from the intake side, so while the zip tie will not contact the seal directly, the valve face and seat are still at risk, especially if the valve is not fully closed.

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