Why no writeup for cleaning MAF sensor?

MTL_4runner · 09-30-2003, 06:38 AM

Anyone want to do one?

Seems like this has been a pretty persistant problem on most 3rd gen 4runners so maybe we should have a section for that in maintenance. Seems pretty improtant for keeping the old rig in tip top condition.....and besides, everyone who has done it reports great improvements in throttle response.

I haven't done mine, so I went to the tech writeup section.
I thought for sure there would be one but found nothing.
I know it is easy for those who have done it but it can be daunting for those who haven't.
Found some threads about it but not a single pic for a 96-98.

Seem like a good idea?

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jacksonpt · 09-30-2003, 06:47 AM

FWIW...

I checked out my MAF when I cleaned out my throttle body. On my 96, it's just a very thin, delicate sensor that doesn't have much protection. I know how expensive these suckers are... so I ain't touching it. I cleaned the TB, but didn't do anything with the MAF. From the writeups I've read, on newer rigs they are easier to clean.

Here's my writeup on cleaning the TB... it's got some MAF pics in it.

MTL_4runner · 09-30-2003, 07:01 AM

I think it is a very fine piece of wire, right?

You should be able to hit it with some kind of electrical contact cleaner without doing any damage. I am curious if anyone has done it on these vehicles and what was the best way to do it. Seems like a writeup would really help in this case (ie a don't clean 96-98 but do clean 99-02 and here's how you do it, type of thing) Can someone chime in if you have cleaned your MAF sensor on a 96-98 with a 3.4L

Unhappy99 · 09-30-2003, 12:02 PM

Its really quite simple...
a. remove maf
b. clean
c. reinstall maf

Please feel free to copy this to the tech section:

99 4Runner 3.4 instructions for getting rid of P0171 and P0172 ECU codes:

The MAF/IAT module is located just downstream of the air filter. Two phillips screws hold the module in place. You may need to move the cruise control servo box to get at the MAF/IAT.

Once removed, clean by spraying contact cleaner on the IAT sensor (obvious little bulb thingy) and down into the MAF airflow tube. Looking into the downstream side of the MAF tube, you can see two wires which make up the hotwire MAF. The contact cleaner I used has silicone lube as part of the mix, so to get rid of that, just swish it around in dish soap and warm water, or use a toothbrush to get the gunk off. Don't be afraid of getting it wet, they are sealed.

Let dry throughly. You can gently blow dry.

Reinstall and watch the Check Engine light go off after 3 or 4 trips. Also notice that the momentary lag at 3200~3400 RPM is significantly reduced.

The MAF/IAT module will stay cleaner longer by using a quality air filter.

MTL_4runner · 09-30-2003, 03:31 PM

That's great Unhappy99!
Any pics you can post for us too?

I would assume the 96-98 procedures are a bit different cause they use a different MAF.
Anyone done it on one that looks like this?
If so are the procedures the same?:

Sorry Jackson, I borrowed your pic.

Unhappy99 · 09-30-2003, 09:55 PM

Yep

Unhappy99 · 09-30-2003, 09:56 PM

And_a_2

Unhappy99 · 09-30-2003, 09:56 PM

And_a_3

Unhappy99 · 09-30-2003, 09:57 PM

And_a_4

Unhappy99 · 09-30-2003, 09:58 PM

Last one

Toyo4x4 · 09-30-2003, 10:14 PM

What about the 3VZ-Es? I took mine out last week and there is just a "door" in the air passage. In the intake side, there is a little, yellow, plastic knob about 3/16" wide, 3/8" long that sticks down, too. Uncleanable MAF sensor on these engines?

Unhappy99 · 09-30-2003, 10:32 PM

If I understand you correctly, your MAF is a big spring-loaded butterfly valve (or door as you describe)? I had this on an 87 22-RE.

In this case, no, there is no cleaning of the MAF sensor. Vane type sensors do not need cleaning, only hotwire types do.

MTL_4runner · 10-01-2003, 03:53 AM

Thanks for posting those pics....this should help those with the 99 - 02 type!

Here they are so you don't need to view the attachments:

Location of your MAF sensor:

Removal of the sensor:

Sensor out:

Sensor parts:

Hotwire location:

Can someone post similar for the 96 - 98 type if they have them?

Yoter · 10-01-2003, 05:44 AM

Mine is hanging out upside down for the time being without the box. After doing my body lift the factory air tube would not mount properly. I had to mount everything without bolting it down. I had to ditch the air box, rotate the MAG assembly over set the air cleaner on it and strap it down. Seems to work just the same. I am going to do Dr. Z's air tube mod asap though.

j-dub · 12-10-2003, 01:52 PM

Are you guys cleaning it with Isoporyl(sp?) alcochol or electrical parts cleaner?

TDiddy · 12-10-2003, 02:46 PM

Just FYI guys, I don't think its as easy as just copying to the tech section.

Corey is the guy that uploads that stuff, and I believe he needs things to be in a certain format before submitting a write-up to him.

Here's the guidelines. If you have time it would be nice if you could get them in this format so we could then add them!

Mikey · 12-10-2003, 03:47 PM

Why does that airbox have the GM logo on it????!!!!!

I hope it wasn't built by them. Nah.............it can't be...........its not broke yet.

MTL_4runner · 12-10-2003, 03:51 PM

I remember someone else makes the tranny.....was it GM, Ford or Chrysler?
Anyone know the answer?

I would love to do a writeup for the MAF but I don't have time right now.
I might try to do one on an alarm install over X-Mas though.

MTL_4runner · 12-10-2003, 03:54 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by j-dub
Are you guys cleaning it with Isoporyl(sp?) alcochol or electrical parts cleaner?

I think either would work well but the electrical contact spray is very convienent for the job.

goretro77 · 12-15-2003, 12:07 PM

Hi,
Anyone has pics for the '96 style MAF sensor for a 4Runner SR5 with the 5VZ0FE engine? Thanks in advance,
El.

Dozer · 12-15-2003, 08:02 PM

I've used alcohol on mine a couple of times. I'll be switching from K&N to an Amsoil filter in the next couple weeks. With the K&N I have to clean the MAF every 2 months or so...and it always goes out at the worst time (usually while wheelin) which kills my TRACshun control and ABS...

Dozer

j-dub · 12-16-2003, 08:31 AM

Would you guys recomend doing this to even though I am not having any troubles with my MAF?

MTL_4runner · 12-16-2003, 09:25 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by j-dub
Would you guys recomend doing this to even though I am not having any troubles with my MAF?

The 99+ I would clean but the earlier version is very delicate and expensive if you break it.
I would only clean if you are having trouble (ie CEL).

j-dub · 12-16-2003, 09:42 AM

Thanks MTL, I have a 96 so I will heed your warning.

Pauljp15 · 12-17-2003, 08:36 AM

i go ridding alot, and my check engine light came on ,well after complete diagnostics i discoverd my MAF was clogged with dirt, i took it out and sprayed it real good with electrical contact cleaner, i put it back in and reset the computer(disconnect batt) and it never came on again, runs good to.

09-30-2003, 06:47 AM	#2 (permalink)
jacksonpt Senior Member Join Date: May 2002 Location: Binghamton, NY Posts: 2,753	FWIW... I checked out my MAF when I cleaned out my throttle body. On my 96, it's just a very thin, delicate sensor that doesn't have much protection. I know how expensive these suckers are... so I ain't touching it. I cleaned the TB, but didn't do anything with the MAF. From the writeups I've read, on newer rigs they are easier to clean. Here's my writeup on cleaning the TB... it's got some MAF pics in it. __________________ Jackson - My Site 96 SR5 4x4 - 33" MTs, open diffs, and 3.90s - LET'S ROCK! My runner has bee traded in sniff on an 06 SR5 long bed d-cab Tacoma. The tacoma is nice, but... sniff ... I'll update my site when I'm done grieving. Last edited by jacksonpt; 09-30-2003 at 06:49 AM.

09-30-2003, 07:01 AM	#3 (permalink)
MTL_4runner Contributing Member Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: Montreal, QC Canada Posts: 8,807	I think it is a very fine piece of wire, right? You should be able to hit it with some kind of electrical contact cleaner without doing any damage. I am curious if anyone has done it on these vehicles and what was the best way to do it. Seems like a writeup would really help in this case (ie a don't clean 96-98 but do clean 99-02 and here's how you do it, type of thing) Can someone chime in if you have cleaned your MAF sensor on a 96-98 with a 3.4L __________________ - Jamie 1996 4Runner SR5 4X4 Auto Deckplate Mod, Hayden Tranny Cooler, Amsoil Air Filter, OME 881/906 N86C/N91SC Lift Best OBD II scan tool I have used!. .....and I am AMERICAN!

09-30-2003, 03:31 PM	#5 (permalink)
MTL_4runner Contributing Member Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: Montreal, QC Canada Posts: 8,807	That's great Unhappy99! Any pics you can post for us too? I would assume the 96-98 procedures are a bit different cause they use a different MAF. Anyone done it on one that looks like this? If so are the procedures the same?: Sorry Jackson, I borrowed your pic. __________________ - Jamie 1996 4Runner SR5 4X4 Auto Deckplate Mod, Hayden Tranny Cooler, Amsoil Air Filter, OME 881/906 N86C/N91SC Lift Best OBD II scan tool I have used!. .....and I am AMERICAN! Last edited by MTL_4runner; 10-01-2003 at 03:59 AM.

09-30-2003, 09:55 PM	#6 (permalink)
Unhappy99 Registered User Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: Albuquerque, NM Posts: 381	Yep Attached Thumbnails __________________ 03 Dodge Ram 2500 CTD...its amazing Ex: 1999 4Runner JT3HN86R1X0199261...Now somebody elses Karl Malone Toyota 'Certified' POS Legendary Toyota quality is exactly that: A thing of legend. Defective fuel gauge - 'Certified' Defective brake rotors - 'Certified' Defective axle seals - 'Certified' Defective heater diverter - 'Certified' etc. etc. etc.

09-30-2003, 09:56 PM	#7 (permalink)
Unhappy99 Registered User Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: Albuquerque, NM Posts: 381	And_a_2 Attached Thumbnails __________________ 03 Dodge Ram 2500 CTD...its amazing Ex: 1999 4Runner JT3HN86R1X0199261...Now somebody elses Karl Malone Toyota 'Certified' POS Legendary Toyota quality is exactly that: A thing of legend. Defective fuel gauge - 'Certified' Defective brake rotors - 'Certified' Defective axle seals - 'Certified' Defective heater diverter - 'Certified' etc. etc. etc.

09-30-2003, 12:02 PM	#4 (permalink)
Unhappy99 Registered User Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: Albuquerque, NM Posts: 381	Its really quite simple... a. remove maf b. clean c. reinstall maf Please feel free to copy this to the tech section: 99 4Runner 3.4 instructions for getting rid of P0171 and P0172 ECU codes: The MAF/IAT module is located just downstream of the air filter. Two phillips screws hold the module in place. You may need to move the cruise control servo box to get at the MAF/IAT. Once removed, clean by spraying contact cleaner on the IAT sensor (obvious little bulb thingy) and down into the MAF airflow tube. Looking into the downstream side of the MAF tube, you can see two wires which make up the hotwire MAF. The contact cleaner I used has silicone lube as part of the mix, so to get rid of that, just swish it around in dish soap and warm water, or use a toothbrush to get the gunk off. Don't be afraid of getting it wet, they are sealed. Let dry throughly. You can gently blow dry. Reinstall and watch the Check Engine light go off after 3 or 4 trips. Also notice that the momentary lag at 3200~3400 RPM is significantly reduced. The MAF/IAT module will stay cleaner longer by using a quality air filter.

09-30-2003, 09:56 PM	#8 (permalink)
Unhappy99 Registered User Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: Albuquerque, NM Posts: 381	And_a_3 Attached Thumbnails __________________ 03 Dodge Ram 2500 CTD...its amazing Ex: 1999 4Runner JT3HN86R1X0199261...Now somebody elses Karl Malone Toyota 'Certified' POS Legendary Toyota quality is exactly that: A thing of legend. Defective fuel gauge - 'Certified' Defective brake rotors - 'Certified' Defective axle seals - 'Certified' Defective heater diverter - 'Certified' etc. etc. etc.

09-30-2003, 09:57 PM	#9 (permalink)
Unhappy99 Registered User Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: Albuquerque, NM Posts: 381	And_a_4 Attached Thumbnails __________________ 03 Dodge Ram 2500 CTD...its amazing Ex: 1999 4Runner JT3HN86R1X0199261...Now somebody elses Karl Malone Toyota 'Certified' POS Legendary Toyota quality is exactly that: A thing of legend. Defective fuel gauge - 'Certified' Defective brake rotors - 'Certified' Defective axle seals - 'Certified' Defective heater diverter - 'Certified' etc. etc. etc.

09-30-2003, 09:58 PM	#10 (permalink)
Unhappy99 Registered User Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: Albuquerque, NM Posts: 381	Last one Attached Thumbnails __________________ 03 Dodge Ram 2500 CTD...its amazing Ex: 1999 4Runner JT3HN86R1X0199261...Now somebody elses Karl Malone Toyota 'Certified' POS Legendary Toyota quality is exactly that: A thing of legend. Defective fuel gauge - 'Certified' Defective brake rotors - 'Certified' Defective axle seals - 'Certified' Defective heater diverter - 'Certified' etc. etc. etc.

09-30-2003, 10:14 PM	#11 (permalink)
Toyo4x4 Registered User Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: AZ Posts: 191	What about the 3VZ-Es? I took mine out last week and there is just a "door" in the air passage. In the intake side, there is a little, yellow, plastic knob about 3/16" wide, 3/8" long that sticks down, too. Uncleanable MAF sensor on these engines? __________________ 1993 V6, 4x4, Xcab, 5 speed, Pewter Pearl. MagnaFlow cat-back 2.25", Diehard Platinum, Bilstein HDs, OME Steering Stabilizer, OME Rear Springs (One leaf removed), Air Horn, Century Cap, AR Outlaw rims, Michelin LTX M/S. Mobil1 5w30, Redline MT90 & 75w90. Alpine, JL Audio, MBQuart.

09-30-2003, 10:32 PM	#12 (permalink)
Unhappy99 Registered User Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: Albuquerque, NM Posts: 381	If I understand you correctly, your MAF is a big spring-loaded butterfly valve (or door as you describe)? I had this on an 87 22-RE. In this case, no, there is no cleaning of the MAF sensor. Vane type sensors do not need cleaning, only hotwire types do. __________________ 03 Dodge Ram 2500 CTD...its amazing Ex: 1999 4Runner JT3HN86R1X0199261...Now somebody elses Karl Malone Toyota 'Certified' POS Legendary Toyota quality is exactly that: A thing of legend. Defective fuel gauge - 'Certified' Defective brake rotors - 'Certified' Defective axle seals - 'Certified' Defective heater diverter - 'Certified' etc. etc. etc.

10-01-2003, 03:53 AM	#13 (permalink)
MTL_4runner Contributing Member Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: Montreal, QC Canada Posts: 8,807	Thanks for posting those pics....this should help those with the 99 - 02 type! Here they are so you don't need to view the attachments: Location of your MAF sensor: Removal of the sensor: Sensor out: Sensor parts: Hotwire location: Can someone post similar for the 96 - 98 type if they have them? __________________ - Jamie 1996 4Runner SR5 4X4 Auto Deckplate Mod, Hayden Tranny Cooler, Amsoil Air Filter, OME 881/906 N86C/N91SC Lift Best OBD II scan tool I have used!. .....and I am AMERICAN! Last edited by MTL_4runner; 10-01-2003 at 03:58 AM.

10-01-2003, 05:44 AM	#14 (permalink)
Yoter Guest Join Date: Jun 2003 Posts: 5,048	Mine is hanging out upside down for the time being without the box. After doing my body lift the factory air tube would not mount properly. I had to mount everything without bolting it down. I had to ditch the air box, rotate the MAG assembly over set the air cleaner on it and strap it down. Seems to work just the same. I am going to do Dr. Z's air tube mod asap though.

12-10-2003, 01:52 PM	#15 (permalink)
j-dub Registered User Join Date: Aug 2003 Posts: 81	Are you guys cleaning it with Isoporyl(sp?) alcochol or electrical parts cleaner? __________________ "POLICE STATION TOILET STOLEN ... Cops have nothing to go on."

12-10-2003, 02:46 PM	#16 (permalink)
TDiddy Contributing Member Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: Urbandale, IA Posts: 7,113	Just FYI guys, I don't think its as easy as just copying to the tech section. Corey is the guy that uploads that stuff, and I believe he needs things to be in a certain format before submitting a write-up to him. Here's the guidelines. If you have time it would be nice if you could get them in this format so we could then add them!

12-10-2003, 03:47 PM	#17 (permalink)
Mikey Registered User Join Date: Apr 2003 Location: Indiana, PA Posts: 234	Why does that airbox have the GM logo on it????!!!!! I hope it wasn't built by them. Nah.............it can't be...........its not broke yet. __________________ 1998 Tacoma SR5 4x4 Extended Cab K&N Filter, Deckplate mod......that's it until I get a raise! Just added...Bilstein shocks and TRD Springs....Still waiting for a raise!

12-10-2003, 03:51 PM	#18 (permalink)
MTL_4runner Contributing Member Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: Montreal, QC Canada Posts: 8,807	I remember someone else makes the tranny.....was it GM, Ford or Chrysler? Anyone know the answer? I would love to do a writeup for the MAF but I don't have time right now. I might try to do one on an alarm install over X-Mas though. __________________ - Jamie 1996 4Runner SR5 4X4 Auto Deckplate Mod, Hayden Tranny Cooler, Amsoil Air Filter, OME 881/906 N86C/N91SC Lift Best OBD II scan tool I have used!. .....and I am AMERICAN!

12-15-2003, 12:07 PM	#20 (permalink)
goretro77 Registered User Join Date: Dec 2003 Posts: 56	Hi, Anyone has pics for the '96 style MAF sensor for a 4Runner SR5 with the 5VZ0FE engine? Thanks in advance, El.

12-15-2003, 08:02 PM	#21 (permalink)
Dozer Registered User Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: Evergreen, Colorado Posts: 76	I've used alcohol on mine a couple of times. I'll be switching from K&N to an Amsoil filter in the next couple weeks. With the K&N I have to clean the MAF every 2 months or so...and it always goes out at the worst time (usually while wheelin) which kills my TRACshun control and ABS... Dozer __________________ 2009 Tacoma TRD Offroad

12-16-2003, 08:31 AM	#22 (permalink)
j-dub Registered User Join Date: Aug 2003 Posts: 81	Would you guys recomend doing this to even though I am not having any troubles with my MAF? __________________ "POLICE STATION TOILET STOLEN ... Cops have nothing to go on."

12-16-2003, 09:42 AM	#24 (permalink)
j-dub Registered User Join Date: Aug 2003 Posts: 81	Thanks MTL, I have a 96 so I will heed your warning. __________________ "POLICE STATION TOILET STOLEN ... Cops have nothing to go on."

12-17-2003, 08:36 AM	#25 (permalink)
Pauljp15 Registered User Join Date: Dec 2003 Posts: 3	i go ridding alot, and my check engine light came on ,well after complete diagnostics i discoverd my MAF was clogged with dirt, i took it out and sprayed it real good with electrical contact cleaner, i put it back in and reset the computer(disconnect batt) and it never came on again, runs good to.

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