This "new to me" 'Burb may be spending a short time in my driveway. Had it to my local mechanic for the required state inspection and he had a few repairs to make. Sat for a day or so while he acquired parts and battery discharged enough that he had to jump it, engine ran really rough as he test drove it. He told me about it and asked if he should keep it for further diagnosis. I needed a vehicle and had not had any similar issues so I took it and drove it for several days without any issueand had pretty much dismissed the issue as the computer "relearning" after the low battery. Changed the battery last night since I had an almost new one in the '94 that this is replacing. Drove it some last night and now I know what the mechanic was seeing shifts horribly, stalls occasionally, just pretty miserable to drive. Hoped it would improve this morning, but no go so far. Code reads MAF sensor.

Any thoughts on further diagnosis, already found a leaking fuel tank. Just goes to show that there are rarely any really super deals out there.

Thanks,

Kirk

 

Unplug the maf sensor, see if it clears up. If it drives better with it unplgged, replace the maf. I'd also suggest make sure there is an air filter, no leaks, and nothing has been "modified" in the air intake ducts. That sensor is "sized" for the inlet, and if someone has "modified it" that will through the sensor readings off.

 

OK, had heard that before so unplugged sensor and truck would not start. Plugged it back in and still won't start. Cranks nice and strong, but not going anywhere. Codes also indicating MAP sensor now as well as the MAF. Probably related somehow. Would the MAF sensor go that bad that fast that it would not run? Is it even reasonable to keep working on the assumption that it is the MAF, since I think it should at least run without it?

Any help appreciated,

Kirk

 

Try taking off battery cable, for a few minutes. See if that will reset it.

 

Went out this morning with my code reader and cleared everything. Started it up and died after about 5 seconds. Tried again and engine smoothed right out. Took it out for 2-3 miles and drove as smooth as butter. Haven't had a chance to take it out again, but point seems to be don't let the battery get low or disconnected. CEL came back on during drive, but for right now I don't think I am going to worry about it too much.

Kirk