Could Extremely dirty MAF & IAT cause DPFE code?

[TB2K]

Ok I went to clean my MAF today because I thought it was a good idea since the prev owner never had an air filter in it for some unknown reason, and because I read a dirty one can cause some drivability issues. When I pulled it the wires were black on the side facing the filter box. after cleaning and using up both sides of the swab, I decided if it was that dirty I better check the IAT sensor (assuming thats what it is, sensor in the intake tube before bend into TB) and it was even worse so I cleaned it and went theough 2 swabs! I then cleaned the tube out and the maf and filter housings and let it all dry reassembled and reconnected the battery. drivability increased 110%! and the dpfe code I had hasen't come back yet, could the computer have been tricked into this code due to the dirty sensors? Also I think cleaning the inside of the engine is now a good idea, I remember reading something about foam you spray into the TB let set then start engine...can anything go wrong when using that stuff? is it 100% safe?

 

[robertoa1a]

The original DPFE was metal and heat got to them often. They are a common problem in the 4.0l. The DPFE wont cause any emergency situation so its safe just to wait and see. They are usually less than $50 and take about 10 minutes to replace.

 

[TB2K]

yeah it is metal and deffenetly the original. I went to the junk yard looking for one of the newer ones but only found a few of the old metal corroded ones. I didn't have the $50 to spend on one at the time. maybe if the code comes back I'll get it next week.

 

[robertoa1a]

Your engine should be fine 'till then. It's only a small amount of exhaust gas that gets recirculated into the intake at cruising speeds to reduce oxides of nitrogen from the exhaust. If the EGR valve is overactive (opening when it should be closed) then you can feel some hesitation on acceleration and some minor idle issues but you should be okay for now.

 

[TB2K]

well I was feeling that, but after cleaning the intake sensors it seems to be gone all together.