MAF and codes question

[NotSoSlowSHO]

Ive read about people running with their MAF unplugged. Ive got a few questions...

1. why?
2. what are the short/long term concequences?
3. why?

Today I replaced my O2's... now the engine is running better, and the [lean] code has dissapeared... but I a new code popped up

I got a [26]... " Mass Air Flow (MAF) or Vane Air Flow (VAF) out of range
Transmission Oil Temperature (TOT) sensor out of range "

Ive never gotten this code before shrug and the MAF was cleaned just two months ago headbang

Ideas?

Thanks!

 

[oh_SHO]

The only benefit I've heard of is unplugging the MAF when it is bad. I think it forces to computer to use defualt values instead of the incorrect readings from the bad MAF. I don't think it causes any harm but it will effect performance.

 

[sdpatt]

It is done only when a failing MAF causes the engine to run poorly and only until the MAF can be replaced. It causes the EEC to run in open loop mode with a richer mixture. The rich mixture will cause the engine to fail emissions tests, possibly overheat the catalytic converters from the excessive oxidation that they must perform, clear lubricating oil from the cylinder walls and certainly result in lower fuel economy.

Check the electrical connector and the connections. Make sure the conector is secure and the contacts are clean and free of oxidation. When you cleaned the sensor, you may have damaged one of the filaments. How did you clean it?

 

[NotSoSlowSHO]

Thanks...

I figured that disconnecting the MAF would cause a rich condition, but wasnt sure...

Anyhow, I must have an electrical issue because I was VERY careful with cleaning the MAF (carb cleaner) and never had any issues until pulling that code yesterday. Ill have to check though! wink

 

[masho95]

Did you run the car without the MAF? If you do the computer throws a MAF code for voltage out of range. I unplugged mine while it was running the other day and it threw a code.