I had a good 5+ year run with the current Bosch MAF sensor in my 2004 D2 HSE before it starting throwing MAF code (and a Bank 2 knock sensor, which I am assuming for now is related to the MAF code).

I tried to order a new Bosch MAF (complete, with housing) from a couple of vendors and each time got a housing that was a couple mm too small for my airbox and intake hoses.

Frustrated that I couldn't buy a complete Bosch MAF again, and not wanting to taking the MAF itself out of one of the undersized housings, I instead bought a different brand MAF sensor only that made it about 6 months before starting to throw codes (MAF and knock sensor).

Anyone have any suggestions of where I can get a properly sized Bosch sensor+housing or just a Bosch sensor (at a reasonable price)?

or lacking that, a different brand that you've had success with?

 

I just bought one from Atlantic British for my 04 and installed today. I believe the 03-04 have slightly larger diameter.

 

The air intake tube in which the MAF sensor is mounted is irrelevant.

Just remove the MAF itself from whatever air intake tube in which it was mounted when you received it, and mount it in the air intake tube from your truck.

 

Understood on the irrelevance of the tube, I just hate the thought of paying the premium for a tube that I am just going to throw away. So nothing other than the Bosch then?

 

The housing for the 2003/2004 trucks is a different size to the earlier years. You may have been sent ones from the earlier trucks.
Some people have had success with non-Bosch MAFs, but it seems like the Bosch ones generally have a longer life than the others. Was certainly the case for me.

 

Delphi have been the only aftermarket ones which have worked for me on customers D2/P38's. It is the MAF sensor itself, new screws and it usually had a security bit to remove the original with for around 60.00.

 

Is regular cleaning a prescribed practice with these things? Will that do anything to extend their life?

 

my cheapy amazon one still working fine...

 

Keep your air filter clean. My MAF has lasted since 2004. Don't let water or any contamination into your air system.
If off roading, keep a spare new air filter and check the one in use when you stop. If dirty, replace in with the spare.
I've never directly cleaned mine.

 

I've only replaced 1 Bosch MAF on any of my personal LR's.