Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF)

[renchjeep]

My 94 SE (232k) would not pass CA smog. NOx too high at 25 mph. New Delphi EGR ($123.00), did the Seafoam treatment, no help. Passages are clean. New aftermarket cat ($200.00 installed), still dirty at 25. New ACDelco O2 sensor, still dirty at 25. Today, my smog guy put on a "new" MAF, and she passed! He did me a favor by putting my old MAF back on. Only charged me for the initial smog test...he is a friend, after all! Now I need to replace the MAF, if only to get my mileage up from the dismal 16 mpg. And to save the new cat. I would like to have a NEW ACDelco unit...but the price is HIGH! Anyone have experience with Dorman or Cardone MAF's? Good, bad, ugly? Spend the money on a new or rebuilt Delco unit, or try junkyard sourcing? Ideas? Opinions? Experiences?

Hope all my ramblings made some sense...

Chris in Aguanga, CA

[MattStrike]

Most times, they just need cleaning with MAF specific cleaner, and a small hobby paint brush to help loosen the buildup.

Otherwise, a junkyard unit will work (make sure the numbers match yours) but would still need to be cleaned.

I've never had to buy a new one, except the old style LG3 sensor that doesn't use a heated wire like these, and I've only seen one go bad; had to look at it under a jeweler's loup to see the wire had oxidized under the tiny glass-looking bead in the middle.

[mylittleblackbird]

+1 for cleaning it first. It can make a world of difference.

[renchjeep]

I cleaned this one less than a year ago, and with the proper cleaner. I know it could be dirty again, but it is NOT a factory unit...just one more reason I want to replace it. I have no idea what brand it is, it was installed before I owned the car. Anyone have an original GM MAF, or at least the numbers I should be looking for in the junkyard, if I go that route?

Thanks again--Chris in Aguanga

[SSEBonne4evr]

I cleaned this one less than a year ago, and with the proper cleaner. I know it could be dirty again, but it is NOT a factory unit...just one more reason I want to replace it. I have no idea what brand it is, it was installed before I owned the car. Anyone have an original GM MAF, or at least the numbers I should be looking for in the junkyard, if I go that route?

Thanks again--Chris in Aguanga

I got MAF's here:
http://www.pontiacbonnevilleclub.com/fo ... 30803.html