I have searched and search everyone's horror stories trying to find a replacement for their MAF sensor. So my question is this, What is the best brand to buy as a replacement?

 

A used Bosch !

 

Why a used one?

 

On average how many Miles can you expect to get out of the factory maf ?

 

No clue I'm build my TPI now and if the MAF craps out for whatever reason I don't want to be stuck and I don't want to swap over to SD

 

Because new Bosch ones are $300 plus. Stay away from microtech, granatli , cardone.
You can use other vehicle production mafs but unless you buy tune with the maf recalibration it would take awhile to dial it in. The Bosch stock will interchange 86-89 although there are different part number. You can't beat the oem quality and reliability .
https://www.thirdgen.org/forums/diy-prom/459352-maf-tpi-analog-ford.html

 

It's hard to say what the failure is. Keeping the wires clean with maf cleaner may extend its life. When I had a 85 iroc the maf failed at 150k.

 

I have not seen that thread but I have wondered about going with the Lightning MAF upgrade. I know a lot of builds using that one. Plus I am getting a custom Dyno tune once this is all out together.

 

You should consult with your dyno tuner and get their opinion, see if they even work with obd1 .
http://www.corvetteforum.com/forums/c4-forced-induction-nitrous/1927593-blow-through-maf-new-idea.html

 

He does OBD1. I had him tune out the VATS and EGR already to get this car run again after a VATS issue