Diagnosing an air-flow sensor issue?
For some time now, my truck, a 2001 Chevrolet Silverado (1500 V6) has had an issue starting. However, a mechanic friend of mine recently said he discovered the issue- being the mass air flow sensor. It seemed to help it start like its supposed to, but when it would be disconnected, the truck would idle up and when reattached, it'd idle down.
However, after all that, disconnecting the sensor has had little to no effect on my truck's cranking. I have a replacement sensor, but I hate to spend the money on replacing it if its not the true issue at hand.
What gets me is that it feels like the spark plugs aren't firing hot enough- instead of a popping blue flame, it is a weaker, yellowish flame that shoots out. I have an ignition replacement part as well, but again, I hate to replace something that isn't the true cause.
Any suggestions? Does it sound like an air-flow sensor problem?