C4 Tech/Performance L98 Corvette and LT1 Corvette Technical Info, Internal Engine, External Engine

Mass Airflow Sensor

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Old Dec 28, 2008 | 12:00 AM
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Default Mass Airflow Sensor

So I got my 85 finally fired up today and broke the motor in. I set the timing and as I throttle up it is good until I get to where the throttle is open all the way. After about opening half way it began to be sluggish. I unplugged the mass airflow sensor and it ran much better on the top end. I am going to buy a new sesor. Is this probably the main problem?
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Old Dec 28, 2008 | 12:05 AM
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doesnt 85 not have separate burn off relays for the maf? Controlled by ecm ?

Might be maf.
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Old Dec 28, 2008 | 12:10 AM
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You may try cleaning it first. 4.99 for a can of MAF cleaner may really beat the alternative. my .02
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Old Dec 28, 2008 | 12:32 AM
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I did try the maf cleaner!
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Old Dec 28, 2008 | 12:35 AM
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bummer.....
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Old Dec 28, 2008 | 01:11 AM
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If it ran better with the MAF unplugged it has to be the MAF that is causing the rough idle and unresponsive throttle right?
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Old Dec 28, 2008 | 01:18 AM
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Originally Posted by buddylee432
If it ran better with the MAF unplugged it has to be the MAF that is causing the rough idle and unresponsive throttle right?
Maybe try a new MAF power relay...pretty sure the 85 has one but I don't have a FSM handy to check.
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Old Dec 28, 2008 | 01:46 AM
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It should have that relay... I will try that tomorrow. Is there any way to test the MAFS? I know that I cleaned it out and the wire that is inside is in tact. I did not touch it with anything.
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Old Dec 28, 2008 | 02:06 AM
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Originally Posted by buddylee432
It should have that relay... I will try that tomorrow. Is there any way to test the MAFS? I know that I cleaned it out and the wire that is inside is in tact. I did not touch it with anything.
Yes, you can test the wires that run to and from it while it is hooked up normally but you have to run +12v power to pin "G" on the ADL...the test plug on the drivers side hush panel (the bypass to "G" powers the fuel pump circuit/MAF) while using a voltage probe/meter to check the wires at the MAF plug wires for the proper voltages...it is not that involved I just don't have access to the info right now as I am out of town and this is not my computer. I can dig it up on Monday when I get back home if no one else gives it to you before then.
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Old Dec 28, 2008 | 02:44 AM
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The 85 had a MAF burn off module.Not the relays like the 86 and later cars had.Its located inside the dash.

Are you getting a code?Engine light?

Also,if you added a larger Throttle body or adjusted the TPS and minim air incorrectly,it can cause a similar problem.I only ask this is because you just started it back up,and I have no idea if you did an adjustment or not.

An incorrected adjusted TPS with the min air speed off can cause a code 33 MAF problem and fall flat on its face.
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Old Dec 28, 2008 | 02:47 AM
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Originally Posted by Aggravated4life
The 85 had a MAF burn off module.Not the relays like the 86 and later cars had.Its located inside the dash.

Are you getting a code?Engine light?

Also,if you added a larger Throttle body or adjusted the TPS and minim air incorrectly,it can cause a similar problem.I only ask this is because you just started it back up,and I have no idea if you did an adjustment or not.

An incorrected adjusted TPS with the min air speed off can cause a code 33 MAF problem and fall flat on its face.
Though it had a "power" relay at least?
I agree with checking for a correct TPS voltage setting.
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Old Dec 28, 2008 | 02:48 AM
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your sooooo right! He may not even be falling in the parameters for a code set. I don't know what they were but the parameters for the older computers where much wider than they are for the newer.
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Old Dec 28, 2008 | 10:19 AM
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In my case my '85 had a bad burnoff module and never threw a code. Also, since he cleaned the maf and it didn't help it most likely eliminates the module as a problem. I would do the settings as suggested before buying any parts.
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Old Dec 28, 2008 | 01:13 PM
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Can anyone explain to me how to adjust or set the tps? I am new to vettes. You might have to spell it out for me.
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Old Dec 28, 2008 | 01:14 PM
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Do you have a multimeter or voltmeter?
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Old Dec 28, 2008 | 01:19 PM
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Yes I do.
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Old Dec 28, 2008 | 01:22 PM
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Another thing that I did not mention is that I cant get the rpms to get over 3300 rpms.
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Old Dec 28, 2008 | 01:32 PM
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UH OH! well that may change a few things. With everything that you have already given us and that I am kinda wondering if you have an exhaust restriction.

Catalytic converters and mufflers alike can clog up enough to cause these issues. Do you have a vacuum gauge?
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Old Dec 28, 2008 | 01:35 PM
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I dont have a vac. gauge. I do nt have mufflers and the cat is gutted.
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Old Dec 28, 2008 | 01:55 PM
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Well that rules that out for sure. Okay well it could still have a bad MAF really to test them you need an oscilloscope. Could be a bad MAP IF your car has one. Or a weak EGR valve spring.

A dirty way to test for EGR is to just unbolt it, put a dime over the hole and bolt it back down on the dime, you can also use a cut piece of an aluminum can.

If you use a dime don't torque it down real tight as the dime is just a close fit but a little big. You can break your EGR.
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