Mass Air Flow Sensors
For optimal combustion and peak performance, the cylinders in your engine must receive air and fuel in the proper ratio for all operating conditions. The Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine and signals this information to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The PCM uses this information, along with information from other sensors, to control fuel injector on-time and achieve the correct air/fuel mixture.
MAF sensors contain a hot wire or hot film positioned in the intake air stream. As the air passing through the intake duct cools the heated element, more current is required to maintain the element's temperature, and this change in current is interpreted by the PCM as the amount of air flow. The MAF sensor may be bolted to the intake tube, or enclosed in a housing connected in line with the ducting between the air filter and engine.
MAF sensors come from the factory calibrated to measure a certain range of air flow, and to work with particular flow rate fuel injectors. This calibration is flexible enough to allow the addition of performance accessories like a performance air intake system, so you can realize the air flow, power and performance gains from this popular add-on without having to change the MAF sensor. However, when air flow is significantly increased, with a larger throttle body and aftermarket intake manifold and cylinder heads, and/or high flow fuel injectors, the factory MAF sensor may not be able to handle the additional flow.
Two issues can arise, calibration and size. Because of its OE calibration, the original equipment sensor may not be able to provide the proper signal to the PCM indicating the correct amount of air flow. And for MAF sensors contained within a housing, the inside diameter of the housing may be too small, creating an air flow restriction. Aftermarket sensors are available with calibrations for increased air flow and for use with higher flow rate fuel injectors. And sensors with large diameter housings are available to ensure you get smooth air flow from the filter all the way to the combustion chambers.
Our performance MAF sensors are essential for highly modified fuel injected engines, but one can also help you realize even greater gains from a cold air intake system. Each application has been dyno tested by our manufacturers to ensure accurate air/fuel ratios for all operating conditions so you get a proven increase in power. In addition to performance MAF sensors, we also offer sensor mounts and adapter kits. If you're building a custom intake or swapping a modern engine into an older vehicle, the mounts enable sensor attachment, and the adapter kits are an easy way to install a high-flow air filter to the MAF sensor.