Questions about MAF replacement

[sprockmember]

Has anyone used the "ebay" type replacements? Like the one in the link below? Any luck?

AIR FLOW METER ES300 4Runner Avalon Tacoma Tundra MAF:eBay Motors (item 190347668599 end time Dec-07-09 08:11:08 PST)

I've been getting the dreaded p0171 code. Since then I've:
Cleaned the MAF sensor... twice (not just the temp lobe either!)
Done the carb cleaner intake check (for the possiblity of a bad seal somewhere)
Changed my plugs with Denso factory plugs
Changed my plug wires
Checked gas cap/oil filler/oil dip-stick for "looseness" etc.

I'm guessing/hoping it's just the MAF. Just bought the rig with 120,000 on the odometer. It has always been a "dirt-road" vehicle until now.

Seems to run fine (but I've only had it for about a month). No studdering or anything.

The CEL usually only comes on when I'm at idle (not while driving) at stop lights and such.

No weird sulfer smells... so I don't think it's the cat (although the second cat will sometimes leak water 30 seconds after start-up)

So... am I correct in assuming I should get a new MAF? Should I go with the ebay kind? Sorry about the length of the post. Thanks. -Nels

 

[SammerP]

Did you test the resistance on the temp lobe? Or the voltage when air passes through? I used pins in the back of the connector to check the voltage and blew threw the MAF with it plugged in but out if the air box. This is what lead me to clean mine a second time, unloading tons of carb cleaner deep inside the tube. Worked for me, symptoms sound different though.

 

[sprockmember]

Wow... good info... I'll break about the multi-meter tomorrow! Thanks!