Cleaning the MAF mk3 8v

[funkyfive]

Well ive got chip to go in so yet more smoothness to come 
Aftermarket panel filter deff orecommended, + you dont have to buy a new one at the next service. Just wash it out.
Drilled airbox has 2 benefits, awesome sound and more airflow.
Also, a must, is cleaning the throttle body, could contribute to the flatspot. Mine is cleaned on a monthly basis.

How do you clean it? Do you just spray carb cleaner in?

[mattyass]

Cheers all. I will try disconnecting it and see how it feels. It doesnt always happen and sometimes i think its fine when cold and only really happens when warm.

Have covered all the bases (filter/airbox/throttle body) Think i'll try disconnecting it for a short journey and see if that makes a difference.

[Edwin]

Water temp sensor??

[Edwh0re]

Mattyass:  Your car sounds like its displaying the same symptoms mine had when I had issue with my MAF.  Have you disconnected it yet and run it without?  And if so, did it make a difference to your flat spot?  Mine was undiagnosed for a while and I started losing noticable power at the top end as well. Car felt gutless...

Think I paid about £100 for a new Hitachi MAF on an exchange basis, but that was with a trade discount.

[2pt. slo]

How do you clean it? Do you just spray carb cleaner in?

DO NOT, i say do not use carb cleaner on the very brittle maf sensor.  this type of spray will destroy your maf and you will have to purchase a new one.  always use MAF Safe cleaner like CRC.  also do not touch the sensor with anything they break very easily.  Also after cleaning the Throttle Body did you get your TB "realigned" via vagcom?   OBDII Tb's need to be realigned before they will run correctly

[mattyass]

Still not had chance to test it yet. How slow am i.

Was gonna use carb cleaner so im glad ive not rushed in. Are there any other alternatives to the spacific maf cleaner. Its not something i think will need doing often so cant really warrant buying a large can full

[2pt. slo]

im not sure, but the can of spray is only 5 us dollars at any of our stateside autoparts store

[ian24driver]

whilst on the topic of air filters, what product do you use to clean it and how often. also ive seen filter oil for sale, is this worth the money or is there an alternative to use.
Its a K&N panel filter.

[mattyass]

Ok so drove home with the maf unplugged tonoght and it was a dream. Ha! Definately more responsive and no misfire/lag around 3 grand. Time to get the sensor cleaned up. Steady hands mind