I'm fairly new to the TD5 but have a lot of experience with diesel engines. I'm an ex lorry driver and ave had 300TDI and series diesels.
My TD5 has bags more power than my 300TDI above 2,000 RPM, but in that region 1,000 to 1,800 RPM there's nothing there. So much so I find myself regularly stalling it when I pull a trailer because I don't like riding the clutch.
Someone suggested to me today that I should change the MAF sensor. Comments on the internet suggest that a faulty MAF would cause the engine to run rough and probably smoke. This is definitely not the case with my engine, it runs clean as a whistle, but it just lacks that low down grunt.
Am I just expecting too much from this 'modern' diesel engine or am I right to expect to pull off without reving the bolts off it? Also, is there anything I can do to prove a faulty MAF before purchasing a new one?

Unplug the maf and if that improves things get a new maf sensor

If the MAF test is negative can be a not well closing wastegate too but could be many things, a tester would reveal things, EGR is still there?

Yes, I do still have the EGR valve fitted. Not for long though I suspect.

Get rid of it asap cos it could be the root of your problem, untill then clean the MAP sensor(the one in the inlet manifild) cos i have the feeling it's full of muck...that might improve things for the beginning

Get shot of the EGR, cat and that ridiculously huge centre box, low down power will be better. Get it mapped too, transforms the Td5 in to something actually usable.