I recently purchased a 1991 Toyota 4Runner V6 4x4 with 75k miles. I've been attempting to diagnose a problem I'm having (running too rich) and, in doing so, I decided to test the MAF Sensor with the help of my Chilton's manual.
To make a long story short, I removed the screws on the side of the housing that attach the terminal receiver to the housing INSTEAD of just disconnecting the terminal wire (there wasn't a picture in the Chilton's and I got confused... I'm an idiot... etc). When I did, lots of wires sprung forth which I quickly crammed back in and re-attached the screws. Then I unattached it at the CORRECT location and tested with an Ohm-Meter. Everything was within spec.
The next day, the engine stumbled and coughed and almost stalled once while driving. Check Engine light came on and then went off again. I pulled the codes to find 24 and 32 (Air Flow Meter and Air Temperature Sensor). 4 days later, the truck stumbled again... but this time, no code was thrown.
Is there a way I can fix whatever damage I did to the internals of this component? I didn't pull too hard before realizing I was doing the wrong thing. So hopefully... there isn't too much broken.
If not, I've called my local auto parts store. The part is just under $200 and they can get it to me in a couple of days. But, since it's not on the shelf, they can't confirm for me that it is the entire item including the housing and any other sensors that might have been in there with it. I don't need JUST the sensor... I'm sure the sensor is fine. It's the wiring in the housing of the sensor that may have gotten ripped apart.
Also, as best as I can tell, I have a heated wire Mass Air Flow Sensor. That's what the Chilton's leads me to believe anyway. But, I found some information online that leads me to believe I might have a Vane Air Flow Meter (based on the shape of component that I have). Can anyone tell me what I've got and/or how to tell for sure?
Thanks, Jim