I just use 'low tech' carb spray cleaner and an old tooth brush to clean
parts like that.

On the one wire gizmo, the only thing that comes to my mind is a small
connector for VW Dealer diagnostic equipment to connect to ...
if you follow the wire it leads to a pick-up on the flywheel area of the
engine block.   They're usually mounted to the back of the alternator. Most
are just cut off and disguarded.

after the initial carb spray cleaning, I use Simple Green in a spray bottle,
, then WD-40 for moisture removal and general protection.
Low tech, simple, and works well enough. I do the cleaning  on old
newspapers, then but that in the trash when done.  At least that keeps  that
dirt and grime out of water drains and lawns, streets etc.   I use the
minimum amount of carb spray too - try not to contaminate the environment
too much. Most of it evaporates anyway , which can't be too good for things.
I use oven cleaner sometimes too.  That works.

Scott
www.turbovans.com

----- Original Message -----
From: "Ry" <rylincoln@GMAIL.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Friday, March 05, 2010 1:17 PM
Subject: Cleaning intake parts

> Hi all,
>
> 1991 Vanagon Carat MT stock everything.
>
> I was wondering about cleaning the Idle Control Valve and various other
> parts. (not the AFM as I just ordered a new one, was experiencing "vanagon
> syndrome" before i removed this engine, figured I'd start fresh on the new
> to me rebuilt motor)   Everything is pretty oily on the inside and very
> grimy on the outside.  Parts I'm talking about cleaning include, throttle
> body, Idle control valve, crankcase breathing tower(not sure of proper
> name
> for this),
>
> I was thinking just some carb spray...any reason not to use this?
>
> also and sorry for not knowing the name of this part, but near the AFM
> there
> is a single wire going to a part that is about the size of a 14mm long
> socket It's hollow but D shaped inside, what is this?
>
> someday I'll answer a question as opposed to just asking them.
> peace,
> -Ry
> http://www.google.com/profiles/rylincoln