Ok... What/where is the IAT and how do you index it. Also, does one recommend using contact cleaner to clean the MAF sensor/filament? Trying to resolve a pinging problem myself and didn't want to crap on someone elses thread.
The IAT sensor is located on the intake tubing. It's sticking out of the rubber tubing before it goes into the throttle body. You simply index it by making sure the air is going through it. The MAF can be cleaned like that, a lot of people recommend (gently) using a q-tip and rubbing alcohol, this has worked for me.
A way you can index the IAT sensor is to hold it in the position it will need to be installed (so it catches airflow right). Then put a mark (or piece of tape) on each side. Now you know how to orient it when you reinstall it.
Alcohol & a Q-tip has always worked great for me. Just be sure you DON'T use anything that will leave residue.
The IAT (intake air temperature) sensor is on the elbow area of the inlet tube (stock is a rubber boot). Indexing it simply means turning it broadside to incoming air, so the air passes directly over the element.
If you use a q-tip to clean your sensors, be careful! Especially with the maf wires, they are fragile. Make sure they are good and dry before putting them back in too.
So if my IAT was pointing, lets say, backwards rolleyes: having not know what it was when I re-installed it ) this could be a contributing cause to poor performance, pinging, etc?
Would this cause the check engine light to come on, or is that more commonly related to the O2 sensors(which I will probably just replace anyways)?
So if my IAT was pointing, lets say, backwards rolleyes: having not know what it was when I re-installed it ) this could be a contributing cause to poor performance, pinging, etc?
Would this cause the check engine light to come on, or is that more commonly related to the O2 sensors(which I will probably just replace anyways)?
I dont think it is that important at all. With the ping thing, many of us feel that all the little things add up. And so we try and do things 'just right' to make a difference - indexing the ACT/IAT is one of them.
Not indexing the sensor should not allow a CEL if all else is good. If the CEL is on, I would pull the codes and go from there.
The IAT CAN throw a CEL. So I'd pull the codes and see what's up. But it's unlikely that that's the problem. I had a CEL for my IAT one time, but it was because the plug wasn't on all the way.
Some of you guys might not know this but most over the counter alcohol will leave a residue, I would suggest using cleaners that are made for cleaning lenses and sensors, and other electrical equipment. and also a q tip so if you do use alcohol make sure it doesnt leave residue. try wiping it on your window if you see white or foggyness it is no good