stomp code 1222, stalling runs better with MAF unplugged

[Flying squirrel]

*Edit* Solved! it was the MAF, got a Cardone reman unit from Advanced Auto. Thanks for all the help!

Hi All,
Well, I was just boasting about how well my '95 525i with 280k miles has been running. My troubles recently started when I took a 500 mile trip through the Colorado mountains. It mostly ran fine until I stopped at a light and the idle started to fluctuate. It gradually got worse and the whole car would surge at a stop light, then it quickly got to the point that the car wont idle and stalls. The stomp test reveals code 1222, I replaced the O2 sensor thinking I'd be good to go. (Genuine Bosch purchased from Advance Auto), but no. same problem if not worse. When I disconnect the MAF it actually runs better.
This makes me think the MAF could be the culprit, I don't see any obvious vacuum leaks but haven't thoroughly investigated yet. The hose to the ICV is covered in oil as well as some fresh oil around the throttle body. Tried to clean the MAF but no...
A little background, I've owned the vehicle for 10 yrs and over 100k miles. No modifications at all, and have fixed things as they come. New FPR last summer as well as a cheap set of injectors of Ebay, two were DOA so I used two of my old ones. Its been running great, plenty of power, good shifts, the engine barely consumes oil, less than a quart in 3000 miles.
The only real clue I have at this point is that it will run with the MAF unplugged. Any advice as to where to start would be appreciated!
TIA

[dannyzabolotny]

I would do a smoke test... a lot of vacuum leaks aren't immediately obvious and will cause a poor idle/stalling. That's been the case for me every time I've had to hunt down a 1222 code.

If you don't find any vacuum leaks, then perhaps it might need a new MAF. In my experience, cleaning the MAF is pointless and generally doesn't yield any results.

[Flying squirrel]

I used a vape pen set smoke set up I saw on you tube. Is it correct to apply smoke through the air intake hose? I had the key on position 2 and held the throttle open with my hand.
I immediately found smoke pouring out of the ICV hose. I think I’ll start there.
Thanks for the advice!
AD86E06C-7D2C-4F1C-927F-0379DE223933.jpeg

[dannyzabolotny]

Yep, that's where I add smoke with my tester. Chase down all the vacuum leaks and I'm sure your car will run significantly better!

[Sleepyhead97]

Check my smoke tester20210408_114339.jpg

Soldering iron. Jar with lid . white rag with mineral oil. Two hoses and a hand pump. Sealed with epoxy and a quick cure gasket maker

Glove with one finder tip cut off. Attach wrist of glove to engine intake