Will a MAF sensor from a V6 work on my 87 350?

 

if it's an analog type yes, frequency no.

 

Can you elaborate a little on what the difference is or how to tell them apart?

Thanks.

 

Externally, there will be no apparent differences, except for the part number. The actual sensor element works the same for both types. The difference is in the output electronics package on the side of the MAF housing. The analog MAF will produce a linear output signal from 0-5VDC that varies with sensed air flow. A digital (frequency moudulation) MAF will produce a square wave output that has a constant p-p voltage of 5VDC, a constant duty cycle of 50%, but varies in output frequency (the number of times the square wave is switched) depending on sensed air flow. Low intake air flow will result in long pulse times (low frequency), and high intake air flow will result in short pulse times (high frequency).

The two types are not directly interchangable. Moreover, the FM MAFs used on different engine types may have a different maximum output frequency. Later FM MAFs used a much higher frequency that earlier FM MAFs.

If you need an analog MAF, try ordering a Wells SU145 through Carquest. According to Wells (as of March of this year) they are still available.