Why Upgrade to Borla Individual Throttle Bodies?

The Chevy Camaro SS is already a formidable machine, but its factory single throttle body becomes a restriction once you start pushing power past stock levels. Borla’s individual throttle body (ITB) system replaces the single unit with four separate throttles, one per cylinder bank, dramatically improving airflow distribution and throttle response. The result is a sharper, more immediate pedal feel, higher peak power, and that unmistakable induction roar that defines a race-bred engine. This guide walks you through the complete installation on an LS3- or LT1-equipped Camaro SS, from prep to first startup.

Note: Borla ITB kits are designed for serious performance builds. They require a custom ECU tune (or a standalone ECU like a Holley Dominator) and are not a simple bolt-on. Make sure your fuel system, camshaft, and exhaust are compatible. Consult Borla’s official documentation for vehicle-specific fitment.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Gather everything before you start. A clean, organized workspace saves time and prevents mistakes.

Hand Tools & Consumables

  • Metric socket set (8 mm – 15 mm) and ratchet
  • Torque wrench (capable of 5–25 lb-ft)
  • Flat-blade and Phillips screwdrivers
  • Trim removal tool (for plastic clips)
  • 6-inch extension and universal joint
  • Shop towels and brake cleaner
  • New intake manifold gasket (check Borla kit contents; often included)
  • Borla-supplied throttle body gaskets
  • Thread locker (medium-strength; recommend Loctite 242)
  • Dielectric grease for electrical connections
  • Vacuum hose and clamps (if your kit requires additional ports)

Specialty Items

  • Multimeter for TPS testing
  • Coolant catch container (if coolant lines run near intake)
  • Fuel pressure gauge (if the ITB system uses a different fuel rail; most Borla kits do not, but verify)
  • Laptop with tuning software (for initial idle adjustment)

Preparation and Safety

Park the Camaro on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the rear wheels. Disconnect the negative battery terminal and isolate it to prevent accidental contact. Allow the engine to cool completely—surface temperatures on the intake manifold can exceed 200°F after a drive. Cover fenders and the windshield cowl with protective blankets to avoid scratches.

If your Camaro has a cold-air intake aftermarket system, you may need to partially remove it. For stock airboxes, the entire assembly must come off. Label every electrical connector with masking tape and a marker—this is critical when you later re-pin the TPS wires.

Removing the Stock Intake and Throttle Body

The stock intake system on the Camaro SS is a single large duct feeding a 90 mm or 95 mm throttle body. Start by unclipping the harness from the airbox top, then loosen the clamp at the throttle body inlet. Carefully pull the intake tube free. If your car has a MAF sensor, unplug it and set the tube aside.

Disconnecting Sensors and Vacuum Lines

  • Unplug the throttle position sensor (TPS) and idle air control (IAC) connectors. Depress the locking tab and rock gently to release.
  • Disconnect any PCV or EVAP hoses attached to the stock throttle body or intake manifold.
  • Remove the engine cover (if equipped) by pulling upward on the four rubber grommets.

Removing the Stock Throttle Body

Using a 10 mm socket, remove the four bolts holding the throttle body to the intake manifold. Keep them in a labeled bag; you may not reuse them if the Borla kit includes new hardware. Lift the throttle body straight off—the old gasket may stick. Use a plastic scraper to remove gasket residue from the manifold flange. Wipe the surface with brake cleaner and a lint‑free towel. Do not drop debris into the intake ports. Stuff clean shop towels into the manifold openings to block contaminants.

Installing the Borla Individual Throttle Bodies

Borla’s ITB assembly typically arrives as a pre‑assembled unit: four throttle bodies mounted to a common CNC-machined plenum, with a linkage bar connecting them. You may need to transfer the TPS and IAC from your stock unit or use Borla‑supplied sensors. Refer to your kit’s wiring diagram.

Mounting the Assembly

  1. Place the new intake manifold gasket (supplied with the Borla kit) onto the engine. Ensure alignment pins or dowels fit into the cylinder head holes.
  2. Carefully lower the Borla ITB assembly onto the manifold studs or bolts. Do not force it—if it doesn’t seat easily, check for obstructions.
  3. Hand-tighten all mounting fasteners. Then, using a torque wrench, tighten to the value specified in Borla’s instructions (typically 18 lb‑ft for M8 bolts). Use a cross‑pattern sequence to ensure even clamping.
  4. Apply a thread locker to the bolts after verifying torque.

Connecting Linkage and Sensors

The throttle linkage on ITB systems is critical. Most Borla kits include a bracket that mounts to the factory accelerator pedal cable (or drive‑by‑wire actuator if your Camaro is a later model). For cable‑operated cars, adjust the cable tension so that the throttle plates open fully when the pedal is floored. For drive‑by‑wire, Borla typically provides a modified pedal position sensor bracket—follow the included wiring splice instructions.

Plug in the TPS connector. Use dielectric grease on the pins to prevent corrosion. Set the TPS voltage to 0.5–1.0 V at idle and 4.5 V at wide‑open throttle using a multimeter and the adjustment slot (if adjustable). Lock the sensor in place with the supplied screws.

Installing Vacuum Lines

Borla ITB kits often include individual vacuum ports for each throttle body. Connect the PCV valve hose to the designated port on the plenum, and route the EVAP line to the correct fitting. Use new hose clamps. If your setup requires a brake booster vacuum line, ensure it is connected and unkinked. A vacuum leak will cause erratic idle.

Reconnecting the Intake Duct and Fuel Lines

Now reinstall the air intake system. Borla’s plenum typically uses a large-diameter inlet—if your stock airbox does not fit, you may need a silicone coupler or an aftermarket cold‑air intake adapter. Clamp the intake tube securely.

If the ITB assembly required you to remove the factory fuel rail (rare with Borla, but check), reinstall it with new O‑rings. Torque the fuel line connections to spec. Prime the fuel pump several times (key on, engine off) and inspect for leaks.

Final Checks Before First Start

Double‑check every connection:

  • All vacuum hoses are tight and correctly routed.
  • Electrical connectors are fully seated.
  • Throttle linkage operates freely without binding. Push the pedal by hand—the plates should open and close smoothly.
  • No tools or rags are left in the engine bay.
  • Coolant reservoir is topped off (if any coolant lines were disconnected).

Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the ignition to the “on” position without starting the engine. Listen for the fuel pump prime; check for any fuel leaks around the rail connectors.

First Start and Idle Adjustment

Start the engine. It may run rough initially because the ECU needs to adapt to the increased air volume and different idle characteristics. Let it idle for 15–30 seconds, then shut it off. Check for vacuum leaks using a propane torch (unlit) or brake cleaner around the gasket mating surfaces—a change in idle speed indicates a leak.

If the idle is unstable, adjust the idle air control or throttle stop screw (if provided by Borla). Typical ITB idle speed is 900–1000 rpm on a warm engine. Use your tuning software to set the idle target and IAC adaptive limits. Do not drive the car until a proper tune is loaded. Running an ITB setup without a custom calibration can lean out the mixture and cause engine damage.

Tuning and Calibration

Borla ITB systems require a recalibrated ECU to manage the increased airflow. Whether you use a handheld tuner (e.g., HP Tuners, SCT) or a stand-alone ECU, you must adjust the following:

  • Idle airflow tables
  • Throttle follower and tip‑in enrichment
  • VE/MAF tables (depending on sensor configuration)
  • IAC position vs. airflow
  • Wide‑open throttle fuel target

Many owners use a dyno session to dial in the tune safely. Resources like HP Tuners offer community‑shared base maps for Borla ITB setups on LS engines. For LT1 cars, consider a professional calibrator familiar with direct injection and ITB combinations. An improperly tuned ITB system can cause surging, stalling, or part‑throttle knock.

Test Drive and Validation

After the tune is loaded and the engine idles smoothly, take the Camaro on a short test drive. Gradually increase throttle load. Listen for:

  • Any hesitation or flat spots—these indicate fueling or timing issues.
  • Unusual mechanical noises (binding linkage, loose bolts).
  • Check engine light—if it appears, scan the code and address it.
The most noticeable improvement will be lightning‑fast throttle response. The Borla ITBs also amplify intake roar significantly. Enjoy the sound—it’s the music of unrestricted airflow.

Maintenance Considerations

Individual throttle bodies require periodic synchronization. After the first 500 miles, recheck the linkage tension and TPS voltage. Clean the throttle plates if carbon buildup occurs (use a dedicated throttle body cleaner; avoid carb cleaners that damage coatings). Check the gasket integrity every oil change.

Conclusion

Installing Borla individual throttle bodies on your Chevy Camaro SS is a rewarding upgrade that transforms the engine’s character. The installation is more involved than a simple intake swap—it demands careful mechanical work and professional tuning—but the payoff in responsiveness and power is substantial. Follow this guide, torque everything to spec, and invest in a quality tune. Your Camaro will thank you with every stab of the throttle.

For additional technical details, refer to Borla’s official installation manual and the Camaro5/6 forums for community‑shared tips and tuning advice.