Unplugging the MAF while the car is running: Idle is the same
Unplugging the MAF while the car is off, and then starting the car: Idle is the same
Unplugging the MAF and driving it with it unplugged: Car runs the same.

I think I have a bad MAF, but my buddy says that even with the MAF out, the car will go off of base air/fuel maps and it will won't effect idle.

My idle is fairly choppy and it just doesn't sound right.

Fuel filter is new
Spark plugs are new
TB is clean
Coil packs are good (unplugged each one while the car was running, idle got worse for all 4 cylinders.

What do you guys think?

 

Did the idle problem start after the new spark plugs went in? Are you getting any codes or check engine light? Do you have a Multimeter? If so, set it to DC volts and check the connector at the MAF for power with the key on.

 

Yeah, as of today I have some code for the MAF and some code for IAT.

 

How did you clean your TB? Improper cleaning can mess with the position of the blade.

 

TB cleaner. Manually moved the butterfly and wiped it with a shop rag.

 

Not recommend to use TB cleaner and move the blade manually. I did that and it cause me to idle weird. Picked up a local TB and everything was fine.

 

Well if the light/code came on today, its probably because you unplugged it with the car running. It doesn't sound like the problem to me. That code might reset itself if the MAF is connected for a few run cycles. Were the spark plugs properly gapped before install?

 

TPS can wear out in certain spots, on the peddle and TB at any givven time.

 

Yes, they are the stock AC Delco plugs for the vehicle, I got them at NAPA, as I have a friend who works there, got them at discount price. They come pre-gapped. I know this is not always trustable, so yes, I did check them. From memory, I believe they were .043

****.. See I knew that wasn't a good idea, but I didn't see how it would harm it as long as I wasn't using a lot of force. Whoops! I pretty much narrowed it down to the MAF and TB. I guess my hunch was right.

Throttle Position Sensor?

 

**** i was under the impression that a car wont even start with the MAF unplugged. i learned something new today. and as far as cleaning, you deserve a swift kick in the ***** if you use TB cleaner on it. take yourself to Autozone and buy a bottle of MAF cleaner. its $3-$5 and works great.

 

I used TB cleaner on the TB, and MAF cleaner on the MAF..