So, I've got a 92' 4Runner and in the spring I'd like to do up my own home made snorkle. Ive noticed that between the airbox and intake manifold there is something plugged in, always figured its a Mass airflow sensor. If I scrap the airbox and run a cone filter outside the fender, is it going to set off a sensor or cause it to run like crap?

Its a 3L V6 and I would leave that plug included in the setup, I have just experienced that changing the air intake on some vehicles messes with how they run. Thanks!!

 

I don't think the 3VZis that picky. My '98 3RZ(2.7L 4banger) swapped into my '84 has a cone filter and it runs great. Never a check engine light in regards to air intake temp or anything. I'd say go for it.

And make sure we get lots of pics of your homemade snorkel. I'm contemplating it myself.

 

Yes the 3vz is that picky. That "plug thing" is what tells your motor how much air is coming in. You have to leave that air flow meter in the mix when you build a snorkel.

 

what are you planing for the snorkel? there are a few good ones in here,
I did the kind hided in the fender and runs into the space thats betwen the hood and the windshield? haha not sure how its that called

 

Yeah, you definitely need the VAFM "plug thing" plugged in and working. Yesterday I replaced my alternator, and took out the intake all the way from the headlight to the manifold to do it. This involved unplugging the VAFM.

After getting everything put back together, I forgot to plug that bad boy back in and spent 15 minutes in my driveway trying to figure out why the exhaust smelled so rich and the truck would only idle, badly, for about 2 minutes before stalling.

About the time I resigned myself to taking everything apart again, I noticed that plug dangling unconnected. Plugged it back in, and everything went back to normal.

 

Thanks for the help everyone, I will include it in the setup along the way. I won't have picutres until spring since I shouldn't need cold air or water clearance while everything is frozen. Lovely Canada!