New Engine - throttle body installation

[outnumbered]

Just installed new 540 and the throttle body was shipped uninstalled. There currently is a cover on the engine case where the throttle body attaches to (see pic). The engine was shipped with some sort of oil/preservative that flows out when this cover is loosened. I have a couple questions:

1. How can I make sure all oil/preservative is removed before attaching the throttle body ? Just let gravity do its thing over a couple hours/days or is some other method recommended ?
2. If first engine start is still 6-12 months away, is it still ok to install the throttle body now so I can finish the engine installation (i.e. hoses, fittings, etc.) in this area?

Thanks in advance

Dan

 

[Avanza]

1. Remove the cover and wait an hour or so. Clean the flange before mounting the gasket.
2. Yes, feel free to install the throttle body. Close of the inlet with duct tape tape after installation.
This will prevent unwanted animals and moisture to enter the internals.

Good luck

 

[DrillBit]

1. Remove the cover and wait an hour or so. Clean the flange before mounting the gasket.
2. Yes, feel free to install the throttle body. Close of the inlet with duct tape tape after installation.
This will prevent unwanted animals and moisture to enter the internals.

Good luck

I’m sure a lot of builders have no issues with duct tape “adhesive-transfer” after spending months-to-years-long intervals stuck to a part. My opinion is based on several immobilization hunks of duct tape applied to Van’s kit parts _en crate_ in the mid aught’s and early teens. I would advise a less age-hardening, solvent-resistant stickum. I just don’t know what the heck it might be!

 

[JonJay]

I’ve seen thin plywood, stiff cardboard, rags stuffed in (don’t do that).
Easy to make a plywood blank if you think it will be a while before you’re ready to do your airbox. Smear some eazy turn or grease on the flange or sacrifice a gasket if you want it air tight. I wouldn’t be too hung up about air tight unless it’s well beyond a year or in a bad environment. Critters are the bigger concern.