Tips for inspecting/repairing MAF?

[kdkrone]

I had an intermittent problem with my MAF, which was corrected by replacing the MAF. That being the case, I took out the MAF and have it partially dissembled; I thought I would see if resoldering the connections would help.

First, I took out the screws securing the connector. Only after I removed it did I realize that each of the three internal connectors appear to have been soldered onto each of three pins on the internal board. Should these be soldered when the reassembly takes place?

Next, it was a bit of a pain to remove the large square plastic top as I had no idea how it was kept in place, but I only cracked it in one spot(!). Deciding to sacrifice the gasket made the decision easier. I can use some caulk when I put it back together.

Third, I don't immediately see any problems with the solder joints on the top board. Should I try re-soldering them?

Fourth, any idea what kind of solder to use?

ThanksKen K
Modified by kdkrone at 8:49 PM 1/31/2009

[Infinitiguy19]

First, I took out the screws securing the connector. Only after I removed it did I realize that each of the three internal connectors appear to have been soldered onto each of three pins on the internal board. Should these be soldered when the reassembly takes place?

Next, it was a bit of a pain to remove the large square plastic top as I had no idea how it was kept in place, but I only cracked it in one spot(!). Deciding to sacrifice the gasket made the decision easier. I can use some caulk when I put it back together.

Third, I don't immediately see any problems with the solder joints on the top

Modified by kdkrone at 8:49 PM 1/31/2009

Use RTV to reseal, because that's what was used when putting together.

You need to look closer at the joints then, Is there any burning at all?

[goody90q45]

....You need to look closer at the joints then, Is there any burning at all?

IIRC it's the solder joints to the connector pins that go bad. Look at them with a magnifying glass to see if there's any cracking of the solder. I don't know the correct solder to use but a Radio Shack clerk should know. There must be a couple of posts out there with pics of what connections were soldered.

[Q45tech]

A Microscope is a better tool than a magnifying glass.

If you don't have experience and don't know solder compositions, you can do more harm than good.

Buying the proper soldering tools in the proper very low wattage is the start then practice until you are perfect as your life might depend on your skills.

[captainluigi]

A microscope is a better tool if you are an entomologist. About 30x is the minimum for a scope. Much to much magnification for that work. Otherwise a 10x is sufficient for MAF work. A loupe is good but a 6'' mag glass w/surround light is about the best you could ask for.

Dennis are you in to the Gainsville Green again? LOL