EDIT: Pulled out a motorcraft filter we have here. Similar in design, quality on the AFR is 10x nicer. But there's nothing wrong with a stock filter.

 

I think modern MAFs have a self cleaning cycle. The platinum wire is heated up to burn off contaminants. I think earlier MAFs would get fouled by oil sticking to the platinum wire. Of course i could be totally wrong.

 

Replaced the filter today with the Fram air filter. Comparing the construction of the Fram with the Ford, the Fram and Ford filter material look like the same material except the Ford is yellow and the Fram is white. They both have metal backs. The only difference is that the Ford seems to have a heavier rubber seal around the top. But the filter is held down by the filter cover anyway. So to me it appears the Ford ($38) and the Fram ($10.99) are very similiar. Thanks for all your input and advice!

 

No, thank YOU for the review! I may just have to buy a Fram filter the next time I swing by Wal-Mart. I like to keep extra filters just in case

 

Nobody carries them in stock. You have to order it. I looked in Walmart and they did not have ours. But Checker Auto got it the next day for me. Seems kind of strange that the Fram air filter for a popular car like the Mustang is not carried anywhere but at Ford dealers.

 

That's weird indeed. I expect that within a year the Fram CA9895 will be available in all stores and the Motorcraft FA1773 will drop in price.

 

So are you saying not to buy a K & N Filter???? or just make sure that they are never over oiled?? I am thinking of getting a C&L....or a JLT Cold Air Intake....which would you suggest???

 

K&N filters are fine! Just make sure that they're over oiled. The sensor does burn off some itself, but it still interrupts the readings.

You can't go wrong with either the JLT or C&L kit. They use S&B filters, which are great quality.

CR
Tillman Speed

 

Contaminated MAF sensor wires may cause a lean or rich condition, abnormal automatic transmission shifting, and even detonation. Bottom line is that you don't want anything touching the MAF sensor wires.

 

Exactly.