questions on MAF sensor for an 86'

[tdr1919]

service engine light is on (previous owner removed the bulb), we all know this one! I checked the code, I got a 34,
refering to the service manual, I disconnected the MAF sensor (Bosch type)
went back, turned on the ignition, and got a 33 followed by a 34. according to
the manual this is a faulty MAF sensor. When I looked for this part I almost fell off my chair!
My question is:
Is there a static method of testing this device?
Is the error code system a good indication the part is bad?
Where can I go for a better price for this part.

Thanks,
Tom

 

[tkrphxr]

I just went through a similar situation with my 86. A mech at my local dealer said one good check for a mass airflow is to tap on the housing where the wires plug in while the car is at idle with a screwdriver handle,not a hard hit just a tap. The idle should not change,if it does then it is a bad MAF. On my car it turned out that the MAF was OK. I cleaned the throttle body and the IAC cleared the codes and had no furhter problems. Hope this helps. The cheapest I found a MAF was at advance auto parts. $165.00 for a rebuilt with a one year warranty. Charlie

 

[Moonunit 451]

I've heard the same thing. Have you ever cleared the code? Does it reset? If so the first thing to do is replace the burn off relays behind the battery. There was another post on this recently, I'll find it and drop the ling in here for ya http://www.corvetteactioncenter.com/forums/showthread.php?t=69566

 

[tdr1919]

Thanks Charlie & moonunit,

No I never changed any of the relays, but I know where they are.

Do you just change them or is there a test?
Thanks,
Tom

 

[tdr1919]

Moonunit,

I went to that link you provided, thats a great help, I'll get the two relays
and also give it the tap test.
Tom

 

[Mad-Mic]

7 bucks each just change them........lol

 

[Vettefan87]

Yeah change them and be done. I have heard running it with them bad could possibly ruin your MAF sensor, and that thing isn't cheap.

 

[vader86]

Replace both relays, they are actually the same part. If the code comes back, then its the MAF itself (unless a wire has come loose).

Do not buy aftermarket MAFs like Granatelli, just find a Bosch or Delco unit from wherever you can get it cheapest, best is going to be about $250.

 

[tdr1919]

Thanks Guys,

My LAP is getting the relays in for me, for 14 bucks for the 2 of them why bother fooling around. I believe this condition has existed for years and because the car runs the previous owner just pulled (actually broke) the check engine light.

With the MAF operating correctly will this improve my gas mileage ?

Tom

 

[Vettefan87]

Yeah it should. When I replaced mine I noticed a little bit more throttle response, and some gas mileage.

 

[tdr1919]

I'm only getting about 18 mpg, and thats normal hwy driving, I think it should be better than that.

Tom

 

[Moonunit 451]

If it's no city driving and not gettting into the throttle much that sounds a little low, should be up around 24.

 

[Vettefan87]

I averaged coming home from Bowling Green 25. And that was a lot of 80 mph driving while it wasn't raining. It should definetly be higher, even if you had 3.07's at least in the 20's... You sure you aren't flooring it all the time? :L