So, I tripped my check engine light the other day, and I posted here, asking what the problem could be. Since there was nothing physically (or mentally) wrong with my 4runner, I couldnt figure out what it could be.

I was told it could be the MAF sensor, and since I did have a K&N/deckplate combo, it could have totally gummed it up.

So on 4x4wire.com (LINK), there is a quick writeup on the process of cleaning the MAF.

So, I open up the hood of my '96, and I dont see no stinkin' removable MAF sensor like the one pictured in the writeup...nor can I figure out where to clean out the sensor wires. Below are some pictures of what Im talking about.

Are 96's different or what? How do I clean the bugger? Do I even have one?!

Lastly, I pulled the EFI fuse anyways. The check engine light went off. My question is this: Since the EFI fuse was pulled, and the engine light went off, does that mean that it had something to do with the intake/EFI? Or, could I pull any fuse, and it would have turned off the light?

Basically now, Im waiting for it to come back on, and then I'll take it to my mechanic to get the dignostic code.

See, no screws:

Look inside...no sensor wires either...

Yep, I pulled it out...

 

Yep, in '99 Toyota changed to a hotwire type of system but I know somebody had a write up on cleaning the '96-'98 versions somewhere. I think the cleaning procedure is just as easy but I don't remeber if you use a different cleaning process;I'm sure a knowing member will chime in shortly.

 

Did you actually pull the code of the CEL? If so what was it? If not, you should probally do that so you can narrow down the problem a bit better.

 

No, I didnt...

I just tried the MAF sensor thing. I know its the the smartest thing, but, I thought that was the problem, because I cannot see or feel any problems.

 

Here is a good thread for cleaning MAF's on a 96-98 (they changed to the newer style in 99+):
http://www.4x4wire.com/forums/showfl...rue#Post106649

 

SC4Runner, thats cool man, some times its a fluke cel like a one time misfire or something to that effect. so back i nthe day before i had my scan tool i would reset the cel and if it came on again, I knew there was a problem. and plus its probally a good idea to clean your MAF like you said hope everying goes alright for you

 

Ohhhhh...

I see now, I Didnt know that the sensor was inside that turbine looking thinggie.

Well, ˟˟˟˟, thats easy enough.

Thanks for the post...thats all I needed!

 

pulling that fuse will essentially clear the memory. If there is still a problem though, it will come back on after a few trips.

 

Oops! I should have referred you to my post a while back, I had the same stinkin question!