pwarnery

I want to change the air cleaner in my 996 T, but I am absolutely unable to remove the plug from the MAF. Is there a trick to it? The repair manual states "push the plug downwards and press the grooved surface at the sides. Pull the plug up and off at the same time." I am feeling a little incompetent right now...Thanks.

brooklynkid

i actually had same problem. Very gently used a "tongue a groove" plier to press the groove surfaces. then pulled up. i think its also easier if you remove maf sensor 1st by unbolting torx bolt. just be real careful as this is very sensitive part, you dont wanna get it dirty or knock it when removing!

pwarnery

I was thinking of doing that. The Torks bolt heads have a small pin sticking up. Bosh's way of keeping us from unbolting the MAF. Thanks.

brooklynkid

you can get that torx at any autozone that where i got mine

GreggT

T-20 tamper proof external torx socket.....readily available.
The tab that needs to be depressed is in the right-forward (flat) side....it is closest to you on the connector (i.e. not down closer to MAF).
Yep.....removing screws 1st & pulling MAF slightly out.....will enable you to see the tab.

pwarnery

I take it a T-20 tamper proof external torx socket must have a small hole in the center to clear the pin in the bolt head. I'll take another shot at it this weekend. Thanks.

GreggT

Correct.
And BTW.....no need to feel incompetent....that darn little clip has frustrated many before you.

pwarnery

Success. Thanks for the excellent instructions. I was able to pull the MAF plug by using a needle nose pliers and pressing in the correct location as posted. After taking the air box out, the MAF was next, with the tamper proof T20 bit. I sprayed it with MAF cleaner. Installed new stock air filter and sure enough this solved the "fluffiness" I could feel with the engine when cold and at small throttle openings. Feeling pretty competent right now...