A cold air intake is one of the most effective and straightforward upgrades for diesel engines, including the 6.7L Powerstroke, a workhorse in Ford’s Super Duty lineup. Designed to optimize airflow into the engine, a cold air intake enhances performance, fuel efficiency, and throttle response. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits, considerations, and options for upgrading to a cold air intake on a 6.7 Powerstroke and other Powerstroke engines.
What Is a Cold Air Intake?
A cold air intake replaces the factory airbox and intake tubing with a system designed to draw in cooler, denser air from outside the engine bay. Cooler air contains more oxygen, so combustion is better and yields better engine performance. High-performance cold air intakes usually have smoother tubing, larger diameters, and reusable high-flow air filters to maximize airflow and minimize restrictions.
Benefits of a 6.7 Powerstroke Cold Air Intake
Increased Horsepower and Torque:
Air flow improvements allow the engine to breathe, which results in gains in horsepower and torque. Most 6.7 Powerstroke cold air intake report gains of 10-20 horsepower.
Better Throttle Response:
A cold air intake reduces airflow restrictions, and the turbocharger can spool up faster. This will result in quicker throttle response and more immediate power delivery, especially useful for towing and heavy-duty applications.
Better Fuel Economy:
Optimized combustion can lead to better fuel economy, especially during highway driving or light-load conditions.
Better Engine Sound:
A cold air intake often amplifies the intake sound of the engine, making it deeper and more aggressive, which makes driving much more enjoyable.
Long-Term Savings:
Most cold air intakes come with reusable air filters that can be cleaned and reused. This reduces maintenance costs over time.
Cold Air Intakes for Other Powerstroke Engines
The benefits of a cold air intake extend beyond the 6.7 Powerstroke to other engines in the Powerstroke lineup, including the 6.0L, 6.4L, and 7.3L Powerstroke. All of these engines are known for their strength and can benefit similarly through an upgraded intake system regarding power, efficiency, and reliability.
Material and Design:
Look for systems with high-grade material like aluminum or high-density polyethylene for strength and durability.
Filter Type:
Choose high performance, washable air filter type systems with brands that offer high-quality products, K&N or S&B.
Compatibility:
Have it confirmed if the intake has been specifically made for the Powerstroke engine. This would provide assurance that there is the perfect fit and optimal performance
Legal Compliance:
Some cold air intakes might not meet the emissions standards of some states. It’s always important to check your local regulations, especially in places like California.
Best Brands for Powerstroke Cold Air Intakes
There are several companies dedicated to making high-performance cold air intakes for the 6.7 Powerstroke and other Powerstroke engines:
S&B Filters
These guys are known for their precision-engineered systems that provide maximum airflow while maintaining filtration efficiency.
AFE Power
They offer various intakes with advanced designs to ensure maximum performance and filtration.
Banks Power: Known for their rugged intakes designed for heavy-duty use.
K&N: Their high-flow, washable air filters are known to be user-friendly.
Installation and Maintenance
Installation of a cold air intake is a relatively easy process and requires minimal tools and about an hour of time. Maintenance includes cleaning or replacing the air filter according to the manufacturer’s recommendations in order to keep it consistent and durable.
Conclusion
The best practical and cost-effective method of enhancing any Powerstroke truck is upgradation to a 6.7 Powerstroke cold air intake or any other Powerstroke engine to a cold air intake. The performance benefits of towing, hauling, and generally driving will be significantly appreciated with this upgrade. More importantly, it offers immediate and long-term benefits like reliability and saving for several years.
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