that's just my opinion on sd tuning, others will have theirs, but i like sd tuning, imo it runs smoother, reacts better and more control over fueling.

yes, set maf hz fail to "0", that will force the pcm into sd mode.
you'll physically need the maf until you install an iat sensor, since it's housed in the maf, the pcm must have the iat.

from there, tune the ve table, but be sure the pe table is setup right.