3.2 Turbo conversion - next batch of questions - MAF?
 

Ramping up to make the leap to convert my 1987 3.2l to turbo.
Going back over all the Pelican/Rennsport threads about conversions, and I'm caught up in Polizei and Cliyde talking about replacing AFM with MAF or MAP sensor. They mention what difference this makes in performance.

Is this complicated?
Is this a simple sensor change, or does it involve adjustments in several other systems?
Is this a good thing?

Just ignorant enough to be dangerous....

MAP, yes, MAF no. MAP stands for manifold absolute pressure senses vacuum and boost. MAF stands for mass air flow and only senses a volume of air. MAP is used for boosted engines and the preferred method.

Requires circuit changes inside your DME to use a MAP among other changes/alterations.

OK, Tippy. Thanks.
Focuses me back on my main intent -- get boosted simply, quickly, and cheaply -- and worry about the refinements afterwards.:)

I switched to MAF in order to get rid of the restrictive barn door which will wear out when boosted. I used a Ford MAF and a split second controller which provides adjustability. Works absolutely flawless.

MAF with boost was big in the Mustang world many moons ago. Thought it died off and the trend went pure MAP but I guess some people are still using according to Rodrsr.

Cost vs. benefit my friend. :)

Rodsrsr,
I have searched the Pelican threads for MAP conversions, but so far can't find anything "cookbook."
However, can you describe the Ford MAF/SplitSecond controller setup, and everything it entails? IF it's complicated and involves changings numerous items, don't bother. But if it's an afternoon unbolt/bolt-on, with no great expense, I'd be interested.
Thanks.

Are you running it due to big cams? What is the benefit of using the MAF? Quicker tuning with engine mods? I remember some of the MAF's had a sample tube you changed depending on injectors IIRC.

My main reason is that I wanted the sensor on the intake side of the turbo, which isn't advisable using the barn door AFM. Its also less restrictive and allows for immediate adjustability. Yes, I do run big cams, Web 20/21 grind. I found a used ARC2 and Ford MAF setup complete with wiring harness for less than $400.00. The system works perfect and for the price I simply couldn't justify spending thousands of dollars on a pressure feed system that is probably better suited for a high boost car. Baloo....The system like any other is bolt on, but you still need to tap into the ecu. If you want something simple, just run the stock AFM with a chip and RRFPR. If your running stock exhaust and cams it will work fine for you.

http://www.splitsec.com/products/calibrators2.htm

Thanks.

All I can say is the MAF solution works for me and is fairly easy to tune. If money were no option, I'd opt for Pressure Sensing ECU... on second thought, probably go 993TT!!!! :)

I live by a very simple formula....How much is the upgrade? How much HP will it yield? Divide the two and thats what your paying per horsepower. You'll be surprised at how many "upgrades" are simply not worth the money. ;)

MAF became big there and never died. I've been dealing with MAF based tuning for 13 years. The only times I've gotten rid of them was on motec standalone builds.