Does your 6.7 Powerstroke feel a little sluggish, like it’s not quite breathing its best? You’re not alone! Many truck owners want their powerful diesel engines to perform even better, and a common upgrade people consider is a cold air intake. But with so many choices out there, it can feel like a guessing game trying to pick the perfect one. You want more power, better fuel economy, and that satisfying turbo sound, but which intake will actually deliver?
Choosing a cold air intake for your 6.7 Powerstroke might seem confusing. There are different brands, different designs, and different claims about what they can do. You might worry about getting one that doesn’t fit right, doesn’t actually improve your truck’s performance, or even causes problems. We understand these concerns, and that’s why we’re here to help you cut through the noise.
In this post, we’re going to break down everything you need to know about cold air intakes for your 6.7 Powerstroke. We’ll explain how they work, what benefits you can expect, and the most important things to look for. By the end, you’ll feel confident in choosing an intake that will help your truck run stronger and sound even better. Let’s dive in and unlock your Powerstroke’s full potential!
Our Top 5 Cold Air Intake For 6.7 Powerstroke Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Cold Air Intake For 6.7 Powerstroke Detailed Reviews
1. Rough Country Cold Air Intake for 17-19 Ford Super Duty
Rating: 9.0/10
Looking to give your 2017-2019 Ford Super Duty with a 6.7L diesel engine a boost? The Rough Country Cold Air Intake (10490) is designed to do just that. It helps your truck breathe better, which can lead to some awesome performance gains.
What We Like:
- It boosts your truck’s horsepower and makes the throttle respond faster.
- It brings in cooler air. Cooler air is thicker and has more oxygen. More oxygen means more power for your engine.
- It comes with a top-notch, reusable air filter. You can clean and use it again and again.
- Installation is simple enough for you to do at home. Rough Country also offers support if you need it.
- It’s protected by Rough Country’s Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty. This means they stand behind their product.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the installation is easy, some users might find the initial setup instructions a bit vague.
- The increased power might lead to slightly faster wear on other engine components if not properly maintained.
This cold air intake is a solid upgrade for your Super Duty. It offers noticeable performance improvements and is backed by a great warranty.
2. Rough Country Cold Air Intake for 11-16 Ford Super Duty
Rating: 9.3/10
Give your 2011-2016 Ford Super Duty with a 6.7L diesel engine a serious boost with the Rough Country Cold Air Intake (10476). This upgrade is designed to help your truck breathe better, leading to more power and a quicker response when you hit the gas. It works by pulling in cooler, denser air, which means more oxygen goes into your engine. More oxygen helps your engine burn fuel more efficiently, giving you that extra horsepower you’ve been looking for.
What We Like:
- Increases horsepower and makes your truck feel more responsive.
- Uses cooler air, which is better for power because it’s denser and has more oxygen.
- Comes with a high-quality, reusable air filter that you can clean and use again.
- Easy to install yourself at home, and Rough Country offers support if you need it.
- Backed by Rough Country’s strong Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty, so you can trust it.
What Could Be Improved:
- While installation is generally straightforward, some users might find specific steps challenging without prior experience.
- The warranty covers replacement, but there might be a waiting period or shipping costs involved for the replacement part.
This cold air intake is a solid choice for Super Duty owners wanting more performance. It’s a great way to get more out of your diesel engine.
3. RULLINE 4″ Cold Air Intake Pipe with Oiled Filter Filter System Compatible with Ford F250 F350 F450 6.7L Powerstroke Diesel Engine 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 Cold Air Intake Kit
Rating: 9.2/10
Upgrade your Ford Super Duty truck with the RULLINE 4″ Cold Air Intake Kit. This system is designed to bring more fresh air to your 6.7L Powerstroke Diesel engine, helping it run better.
What We Like:
- Strong and Durable: The intake pipe is made of tough aluminum. It’s built to last, even in hot engine areas.
- Better Airflow: The 4-inch pipe and special bending help your engine get lots of air. This means your truck can work more efficiently.
- Fits Your Truck: This kit is made specifically for Ford F-250, F-350, and F-450 trucks from 2011 to 2016 with the 6.7L Powerstroke engine.
- Improves Performance: More airflow can lead to a better-performing engine. Your truck might feel more responsive.
- Includes Everything: The kit comes with all the parts you need.
What Could Be Improved:
- Installation: While it comes with everything, installing it might take some time. Professional installation is suggested.
This RULLINE cold air intake kit offers a way to improve your truck’s airflow and performance. It’s a solid choice for Powerstroke owners looking for an upgrade.
4. 4″ Cold Air Intake Pipe Kit with Oiled Filter
Rating: 8.7/10
Upgrade your Ford Super Duty’s performance with this 4″ Cold Air Intake Pipe Kit. This kit is designed to replace your stock intake system and deliver more air to your 6.7L Power Stroke diesel engine. It helps your engine breathe easier, potentially boosting power and efficiency.
What We Like:
- Durable Construction: Made from premium aluminum, this pipe won’t crack like plastic and handles high engine temperatures well.
- Improved Airflow: The 4″ pipe is CNC mandrel bent for maximum air flow, helping your engine get the air it needs.
- Sleek Finish: The polished and black powder-coated pipe looks great under the hood.
- Direct Fitment: Designed to be a direct replacement for a straightforward installation.
- Warranty Included: Comes with a 1-year service warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- No Instructions: The kit does not include installation instructions, which might make it harder for some DIYers.
- Oiled Filter: Some users prefer dry filters, and this kit comes with an oiled one.
This cold air intake kit offers a good way to enhance your truck’s performance and looks. With its durable build and focus on airflow, it’s a solid upgrade for your 2011-2016 6.7L Power Stroke diesel.
5. VVORHSBELL6.7 Cold Air Intake Kit，Air Intake SystemCompatible with 6.7L
Rating: 9.5/10
Upgrade your 2017-2019 Ford F250, F350, or F450 with the 6.7L Powerstroke engine using the VVORHSBELL6.7 Cold Air Intake Kit. This system is designed to boost your truck’s acceleration and towing power. It replaces the weak factory intercooler pipes and boots that can fail under pressure. Get ready for better performance and a more reliable truck.
What We Like:
- This kit replaces weak factory plastic parts that often break.
- It improves airflow with smoother pipes, giving you more power.
- The aluminum construction prevents rust and helps keep things cool.
- Heavy-duty silicone boots and strong T-bolt clamps ensure a secure fit.
- It includes a reusable cotton filter for better throttle response.
- The kit helps reduce vibrations from engine movement.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product description mentions compatibility with 2015-2019 models, but the product title specifically lists 2017-2019. Clarifying the exact year range would be helpful.
- No specific mention of installation difficulty or time.
This VVORHSBELL6.7 Cold Air Intake Kit offers a solid upgrade for your Ford Powerstroke. You’ll notice better performance and a more dependable system for your truck.
Your Guide to Cold Air Intakes for the 6.7 Powerstroke
So, you’re looking to upgrade your 6.7 Powerstroke? That’s a smart move! One of the most popular upgrades is a cold air intake. It can help your truck breathe better and perform a little sweeter. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the right one? This guide will help you make a great choice.
What to Look For in a Cold Air Intake
When you shop for a cold air intake, keep these important features in mind.
Key Features to Look For
- Increased Airflow: The main goal is to let more air into your engine. A good intake has a larger diameter tube and a less restrictive filter. This means your engine gets more oxygen. More oxygen helps burn fuel better.
- Heat Shielding: Your engine gets hot. You don’t want that hot engine air going into your intake. A good heat shield keeps the hot air out. It creates a barrier between the filter and the engine. This ensures cooler air reaches the engine.
- Filter Type: There are different kinds of filters. Oiled filters are popular. They catch dirt well and you can clean and reuse them. Dry filters are also an option. They don’t need oil. Just make sure the filter is high-quality.
- Ease of Installation: Some intakes are easy to install. Others can be tricky. Look for kits that come with clear instructions. Good kits also have all the parts you need.
Important Materials
The materials used in a cold air intake matter a lot. They affect how long it lasts and how well it works.
- Intake Tubing: Most good intakes use high-quality plastic or aluminum for the tubing. Plastic is often lighter. Aluminum can be stronger. Both materials are good at resisting heat.
- Air Filter: The filter itself is usually made of cotton gauze or synthetic material. High-flow cotton gauze filters are very common. They offer good filtration and allow plenty of air through.
- Heat Shield: This is often made of plastic or aluminum. It needs to be sturdy and fit well to block engine heat effectively.
What Makes a Cold Air Intake Better or Worse?
A few things can make one intake better than another.
- Design: A well-designed intake fits perfectly. It directs air from outside the engine bay. It also uses smooth bends in the tubing. This helps air flow without getting choked. Poorly designed intakes might not seal well. They could even suck in hot air.
- Filter Quality: A cheap filter might not trap dirt well. This can hurt your engine over time. A good filter protects your engine and lasts longer.
- Brand Reputation: Some companies are known for making great parts. They test their products. They use good materials. Stick with brands you trust.
User Experience and Use Cases
What do people actually experience when they install a cold air intake?
- Sound: Many drivers notice a deeper, more aggressive engine sound. This is especially true when they accelerate. It’s a cool bonus for many truck owners.
- Performance: You might feel a slight improvement in acceleration. The engine can feel a bit more responsive. Some people report a small increase in fuel economy. However, don’t expect huge gains without other modifications.
- Towing and Hauling: For those who tow or haul heavy loads, a cold air intake can help. The engine can breathe easier, especially under strain. This can make towing feel smoother.
- Everyday Driving: Even for daily driving, you might enjoy the improved throttle response. The engine just feels a bit more willing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Will a cold air intake void my warranty?
A: Generally, no. Most reputable cold air intakes are designed to be direct bolt-on replacements. They don’t require permanent modifications to your engine. However, it’s always a good idea to check your specific warranty details or ask your dealer.
Q: How much horsepower will I gain?
A: Gains vary depending on the specific intake and your truck’s condition. Most cold air intakes for the 6.7 Powerstroke offer a modest horsepower and torque increase, often in the range of 5-15 horsepower. Significant gains usually require other modifications.
Q: Is it hard to install a cold air intake?
A: For most DIYers, installation is straightforward. It usually involves removing the factory airbox and installing the new intake system. Many kits come with detailed instructions and all necessary hardware. If you’re not comfortable with basic tools, a mechanic can install it quickly.
Q: Do I need to tune my truck after installing a cold air intake?
A: For most basic cold air intakes, a tune is not required. The engine’s computer can adapt to the increased airflow. However, if you plan on other performance modifications like an exhaust or programmer, a tune might be beneficial to optimize everything.
Q: How often do I need to clean or replace the air filter?
A: This depends on the filter type and driving conditions. Oiled filters can typically be cleaned and re-oiled every 30,000 to 50,000 miles. Dry filters might need replacement sooner, or can be cleaned according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Always check the filter for dirt and debris.
Q: Can a cold air intake improve my fuel economy?
A: Some users report slight improvements in fuel economy. By allowing the engine to breathe more freely, it can burn fuel more efficiently. However, the gains are usually minimal and can be offset by driving habits.
Q: Will a cold air intake make my truck louder?
A: Yes, many cold air intakes produce a more noticeable and aggressive engine sound, especially during acceleration. This is a popular feature for many truck owners.
Q: What’s the difference between an oiled and dry air filter?
A: Oiled filters use a thin layer of oil to trap dust and debris. They offer excellent filtration and are reusable. Dry filters don’t use oil and are typically cleaned by washing and air drying, or replaced. Oiled filters require more maintenance.
Q: Are there any downsides to a cold air intake?
A: The main potential downside is that in very dusty or sandy environments, an oiled filter might require more frequent cleaning to prevent dirt from getting into the engine. Also, some intakes can be more expensive than others.
Q: Can I install a cold air intake on a stock 6.7 Powerstroke?
A: Absolutely! Cold air intakes are a very common first modification for stock 6.7 Powerstroke trucks. They work well on their own and can provide noticeable improvements in sound and throttle response.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hey there, My name is Joe Martin & I’m the author of OffroadersGuild.com. I’ve been hitting the dirt for a while now. I’ve been off-roading in all sorts of vehicles, from Jeeps to trucks and everything in between.
I’ve also built and modified a few off-road vehicles of my own, so I know what works and what doesn’t when it comes to upgrading and modifying off-road vehicles. I started this website to share my experience and help others get the most out of their off-roading adventures. Let’s hit the trails!