cleaning MAF
Racer
Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 418
Likes: 0
From: South Central Kansas
I would ONLY use spray MAF cleaner or spray electrical contact cleaner that says on the can "it leaves no residue". Just spray off the small coil of wires inside the MAF and let the cleaner evaporate and reinstall. I would UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES use a "q-tip" or cotton swab as they leave a residue of cotton fibers and may foul or physically damage your MAF. Also I would avoid brake cleaner and carb cleaner as they may leave a residue. Bottom line is you want clean and nothing left behind.
Track Junky
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 4,075
Likes: 36
From: Orlando Area
Tech Contributor
I agree that MAF cleaner is probably the best way to go, but I can say first hand that the alcohol and Q-tip method works just fine. I also agree that the chances of damaging your MAF are significantly higher with a Q-tip. I have a hard time believing that a potential strand of cotton would disrupt a MAF sensor reading more than dried residue on a heated resistor. The air flow past the MAF would clear any cotton strands where as the residue would stay indefiantly.
Good points to consider in regards to which chemicals to avoid using.
Good points to consider in regards to which chemicals to avoid using.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 923
Likes: 37
From: Green Bay Wisconsin
I would ONLY use spray MAF cleaner or spray electrical contact cleaner that says on the can "it leaves no residue". Just spray off the small coil of wires inside the MAF and let the cleaner evaporate and reinstall. I would UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES use a "q-tip" or cotton swab as they leave a residue of cotton fibers and may foul or physically damage your MAF. Also I would avoid brake cleaner and carb cleaner as they may leave a residue. Bottom line is you want clean and nothing left behind.
Douglas in Green Bay
