Best Cold Air Intake for 7.3 Powerstroke: Pick the Best One Right Now

Does your vehicle need a boost in performance? The best cold air intake for 7.3 Powerstroke is needed for it. It will enhance the cooling of the engine and the improvement in MPG.

The efficiency of your Ford vehicle in everyday driving and towing scenarios will also increase. Diesel vehicles now have incredible power, but maintaining and repairing them may be a hassle.

The air intake system tends to be the most overlooked aspect of a vehicle. This is ideal if you seek advice on the optimum cold air intake for a 7.3 Powerstroke.

In addition to increasing horsepower, cool air intakes minimize engine strain and improve fuel economy.

If you are curious about the best intake for 7.3 Powerstroke, you can follow the rest of our article. Hammer & Coop promise not to disappoint you.

In a Hurry? Why Not Check Our Top 3 Picks?

What is a Cold Air Intake?

It is, in a nutshell, a substitute for the vehicle’s air intake. The intake system draws in outside air and filters it before entering.

The diesel or gasoline is then mixed with the air as it enters the throttle body of the fuel-injected engine. As a result, vapor is produced and forced into the cylinder heads.

A cold air intake doesn’t mean it’s ‘cold’ because of the word. Direct injection 7.3 Powerstroke, commonly known as Ford Powerstroke, requires a cold air inlet.

A sufficient quantity of oxygen is required for the engine chamber igniting process. It will also improve the cleanliness of its interior and the power of its combustion by providing sufficient quality air.

Factors to Consider Before Buying Cold Air Intakes for 7.3L Powerstroke Engines

So, what characteristics should you look for in a cold air intake? Some of the characteristics we search for are as follows:

Thermal Insulation:

The vehicle’s movements and activities affect the temperature of the engine. It can go to extremes at times. This might prevent your car from acquiring power if the intake can’t handle the high temperatures.

If you wish to acquire a 7.3 Powerstroke, ensure that the cold air inlet is made of heat-resistant material. Heat may readily destroy composite or plastic intakes, so steer clear of these.

Thermal barrier coatings like ceramic or zirconium should be applied to cold air intakes made of materials that transmit heat.

Filter Element with Oil:

For the Ford Powerstroke 7.3L and oiled filter element, cold air intake does wonder for infiltration. However, it would help if caution when adding oil to the mixture.

The tiny oil particles can build up and obstruct the airflow. As a result, problems with the cold air intake are possible. Dry air filters are preferable to wet air filters if your vehicle has mass airflow units.

CARB Approved:

Car parts such as cold air intakes must be certified by the California Department of Motor Vehicles before being used on public roads.

In this regard, the California Air Resource Board (CARB) is the appropriate regulatory and approval authority (CARB). Watch this video to learn more about CARB authorization.

Consumption of Water:

Consider whether your car is constantly in touch with water, such as in places with a lot of rain. This type of inlet may suck water from the fender of your car. It’s the same whether it gets wet from the bottom area of the bumper.

To keep water out of the cold air intake, some manufacturers use a bypass valve-like AEM. Some people construct the intake in two pieces to prevent water from getting into the Ford Powerstroke 7.3L’s cold air intake.

For those who live in wet climates, skipping the cold air intake is the best course of action. Cause if you don’t, your car’s engine will face problems.

Specifications of the Vehicle:

A cool air inlet for the 7.3 Powerstroke is an option to consider. Buying a different engine, such as the 6.7 Powerstroke, will not meet your vehicle’s specs.

Before investing in a cold air intake, establish a list of your vehicle’s model, year, manufacture, and type. Then go for a model that is precisely tailored to your car.

Purpose of the vehicle:

You may have to rethink your driving habits. The purpose of this vehicle is unclear. If so, how often do you have to go uphill? A 7.3 Powerstroke horsepower boost is required in this situation.

Oxygen is a naturally-occurring fuel source. Oxygen concentrations are higher in cold air. You can increase your car’s horsepower by increasing the amount of nitrous oxide in its fuel vapor.

However, this means that you’ll have to delve deeper into your wallet to buy enough fuel to complete the operation.

Type of Air Intake for Cold Climates:

Consider the cold air intake’s design before making a purchase. The air filter is easily accessible because of the short ram system.

On the other hand, the air filter should be moved as far forward as feasible in the air intake system. Compared to a short ram arrangement, this produces greater cold airflow.

Tube Flow:

A bent or curved tube will not convey air as quickly or effectively as a straight one. Cold air intake tubes follow the same logic. With straight hoses, a 7.3 Powerstroke horsepower boost is easy to use.

It’s necessary to know more about cold air intake based on the abovementioned facts.

Best Cold Air Intake for 7.3 Powerstroke Review

Let’s have a look at the in-depth analysis to find the 7.3 cold air intakes:

1. K&N 57-2530 Cold Air Intake Kit – Best Overall

Specifications

• Brand: K&N
• Fit Type: Vehicle Specific Fit
• Material: Alloy Steel
• Item Dimensions: 20 x 12 x 12 inches

Cold air intakes for Powerstroke engines are in high demand, and this is the best overall 7.3 Powerstroke cold air intake. 

As a result of its high-quality air filter, the engine can breathe freely. At 2925 RPM, your vehicle will acquire 14.88 horsepower with this unit.

The cold air inlet for the Ford Powerstroke 7.3l comes with a washable air filter. It just has to be cleaned when it becomes filthy, saving you money on buying a new filter—airflow increases due to its conical form and larger size, which is less restrictive than normal.

You can easily install this cool air intake for Powerstroke with the simple hand tools you have at your disposal.

Mounting the device couldn’t be easier thanks to the included mounting points and OEM holes that match your truck. 

The K&N Cold Air Intake Kit is exceptional due to the cutting-edge filtering system in the package. It comprises several tiny cotton strands that shield your engine from damage.

This cold air intake provides a pleasing growl when the car starts to accelerate, but it fades away as the vehicle speeds up. Despite these wonderful capabilities, this unit has an appealing design and can be used with any 1999-2003 Ford model.

Pros

• Robust construction.
• Boosts your car’s power.
• Ensures engine safety.
• Ford 1999-2003 compatible.
• Low maintenance.
• The sound and throttle responsiveness improve.

Cons

• Expensive.
• Not everyone will be successful.

2. AFe Power Magnum FORCE 51-10192 Intake System – Runner Up

Specifications

• Brand: AFe Power
• Fit Type: Universal Fit
• Shape: Conical
• Material: Alloy Steel

A product from aFe Power, a brand that appears on my Hammer & Coop from time to time, comes in second place. The 1999-2003 Ford F250 and the 2000-2003 Ford F350 may use this intake.

aFe is a good place to start if you’re willing to take a risk and experiment with new companies in this industry. Although the firm has been creating automobile components for a long time, its intakes aren’t as well-known as they may be.

This model promises a 12 horsepower boost and a 43-pound-per-foot increase in torque. This is achievable because of this product’s enhanced airflow.

In terms of both performance and protection, the non-oiled filter is an excellent choice. A single but critical function is to keep the engine free of dust and other pollutants. 

These impurities shorten the engine’s life and impair the combustion process as well. That’s something we don’t want, right?

An 18-gauge powder-coated heat shield with an innovative design is included. The intake is protected from the hot air from the engine by this device, as its name implies.

As a result of the design’s exclusivity, it is protected by a patent. Protecting the intake, which cannot withstand these circumstances on its own, is particularly beneficial.

There is no need to be concerned about the legality of this intake system since it is approved for usage in all 50 states of the United States. As a result, you may go anywhere you like, knowing that you won’t have to deal with any complications from local authorities.

“The mpg of one buyer’s F250 increased dramatically after installing this truck, according to the buyer. A malfunctioning product may have been sent to the customer. This has to be fixed by the manufacturer so that additional people don’t experience this problem.”

Pros

• A gain of 12 horsepower and 43 pounds of torque.
• A non-oiled filter.
• The heat shield of 18-gauge powdered metal.
• Universal fit
• Permitted in the USA.

Cons

• Mpg may be affected.
• Expensive.

3. Volant 19873 Cool Air Intake Kit – Also Great

Specifications

• Brand: ‎Volant
• Item Weight: ‎13 pounds
• Item model number‎: 19873

If you’re willing to take a risk and go with an unknown brand, I’ve found the perfect solution for you.

I’ve never heard of Volant before, but it appears to be a nice product based on the few customer reviews. Another 7.3 Powerstroke Cold Air Intake Kit works with the 1999 to 2003 model years.

Unlike other items, this one boasts several distinctive features. Improved airflow is essential to increasing horsepower. Allowing air to travel through the MAF sensor into the intake tube is one example of this.

Your stock tubing and resonator box will have a noticeable day and night difference if you switch them out.

I’m confident that you’ll enjoy this product. The bigger intake size allows for more cold air to be drawn in. Additionally, the filter is of the highest quality and may be reused many times. It’s washable. Most of you like the simplicity of this feature.

The intake is composed of cross-link polyethylene if you’re curious about that. Aluminum or carbon fiber is used for the insulated cover, and both materials have been thoroughly polished. It’s all up to you.

Both materials are long-lasting and will keep the engine’s intake cool. Anywhere you take your truck; you can ensure that the intake can withstand any damage.

Yes, that’s correct. This intake will be there for you whether you’re off-roading or racing your truck, providing you with horsepower and torque boosts as well as enhancing the sound of your vehicle. You’ll be able to hear and feel the improvements in your performance.

Pros

• Polyethylene is the primary constituent material.
• The lid might be made of aluminum or carbon fiber for better insulation.
• The filter can be cleaned and reused.
• Dishwasher-safe.
• High-quality, reusable filters.

Cons

• Ratings have dropped.
• Sometimes some parts can be missing.

4. Airaid Cold Air Intake System

Specifications

• Product Grade: Performance Part
• Brand: Airaid
• Material: Paper

The 1999 to 2003 Ford F250 and F350 models are compatible with this intake system. Let’s see whether it’s up to snuff.

This Airaid intake has the fewest reviews on this list compared to all others. It has not been properly tested to assure its performance does not imply that it is subpar.

Regardless of the brand’s claim, the horsepower and torque gains are guaranteed. 

These enhancements have been Dyno tested, so they aren’t just words on a page or a promise on paper. Extensive testing has supposedly verified that the product would stand up to real-world conditions.

Although it’s compatible with the factory mounting, this is a significantly more competent replacement. Because it is an open-element intake, your engine will never be forced to burn gasoline that is only partially consumed.

You may rest assured that the engine will always have access to a consistent supply of cold air, which is richer in oxygen. The filter is marketed as a premium product by the manufacturer. 

In addition to being recyclable, this item may also be washed. This enhances convenience.

Installing the intake is a breeze as well. There aren’t any other options that can make the same claim. 

It’s a tricky network. It’s easy to put together with just a few simple hand tools. Airaid has put together a solid product on paper.

However, it doesn’t accomplish anything particularly noteworthy or unusual. That’s why I’d recommend going with a brand like S&B or K&N instead.

Pros

• Unclosed inlet.
• Dyno-proven horsepower gain.
• Filter reused.
• Installable.

Cons

• Fewer ratings.

5. Banks 42210 Cold Air Intake System

Specifications

• Product Grade: Performance Part
• Brand: Banks
• Fit Type: Universal Fit
• Weight‎: 15.61 pounds

You can’t go wrong with this cold air intake for 7.3 Powerstroke. It has plenty of advantages.

In addition to increasing air density, the cool air intake also minimizes the amount of gas emitted from the exhaust.

It helps your truck’s engine maintain a stable temperature and drive easily. Consequently, there are no separations or tears in the engine components.

This cold air intake for 7.3 Powerstroke may be used with diesel and gasoline engines. Stock limits are abolished because of the system’s simplified components.

The Bank 42210 Cold Air Intake System includes five years of limited warranty. If this is the case, your car’s uphill and acceleration performance will continue to improve for a lengthy period.

When towing, your car won’t be bothered, and its throttle response will be improved. Because of this, this cold air intake is one of the greatest Powerstroke HP enhancements.

Pros

• It’s wonderful for the car.
• The filter cleans the airflow.
• It saves you money on gas.
• You get more power.
• It resists severe heat temperatures.
• a 5-year warranty

Cons

• It may be costly for some.
• I exclusively work with 7.3L Powerstroke.

6. Spectre Performance SPE-9922 Air Intake Kit

Specifications

• Brand: Spectre Performance
• Fit Type: Vehicle Specific Fit
• Shape: Round
• Material: Alloy Steel

The Spectre air intake system takes the cake in increasing Powerstroke HP. It’s built to boost your vehicle’s torque and horsepower in the most efficient manner possible.

A larger air filter box is available to accommodate a greater air volume. This 7.3L air filter Powerstroke air filter has a Dyno-tested airflow 50% greater than a conventional air filter.

It’s a no-brainer to upgrade your truck’s cool air intake if you plan on towing. The throttle responsiveness of your vehicle will be improved thanks to this diesel cold air intake. This means your vehicle’s acceleration and uphill performance will improve.

Under the hood, you can hear the car’s strong engine roar. Adding this cold air intake for 7.3 Powerstroke to your car improves the sound. As speed increases, the engine noise decreases.

Thanks to its engine protection function, your truck’s engine is protected from debris and pollutants. As a result, cleaning and maintaining this cold air intake is a cinch. After a maximum of 100,000 miles on the odometer, you should clean the air filter.

You can easily and quickly install this kit in your automobile with the simple equipment you already have in your garage. It’s compatible with Fords from 1999 to 2003.

Pros

• It boosts Ford’s torque and horsepower.
• The car tows smoothly.
• After a lengthy period, you clean the filter.
• The air filter lets adequate clean air in.
• Your car’s engine is audible under the hood.
• It does not void your car’s warranty.

Cons

• Some may need to budget for one.
• Several users reported broken clamps.

7. K&N 57-2531 Cold Air Intake Kit

Specifications

• Product Grade: Performance Part
• Brand: K&N
• Fit Type: Vehicle Specific Fit
• Material: Alloy Steel
• Item Dimensions: 20 x 12 x 12 inches

K&N’s 7.3 Powerstroke cold air intake is another excellent product. The limited guarantee of ten years per million miles means that your car will last longer with this kit installed.

It’s a given that your truck’s horsepower will rise due to this cool air intake’s air filter. 

According to the testing results, the filter provides a 50% increase in airflow over a typical air filter. That’s why it’s one of the best cold air intakes for Powerstroke horsepower improvements.

If you frequently drive uphill in your truck, this is the best option for you. Adding this 7.3 air filter Powerstroke air filter to your vehicle might also help you become faster. It explains why this device improves the towing capabilities of cars.

With this cold air intake from K&N, your car’s engine will produce a pleasing growl as you drive down the road. In high gear, the engine is whisper-quiet, a powerful indicator of what’s happening under the hood.

The engine’s filtration system uses an oil cotton medium with an innovative design that helps keep contaminants out. Maintenance costs are inexpensive because you need to clean the filter once per 100,000 miles.

You can also use simple hand tools and fix them in any 1994 – 1997 Ford using this equipment.

Pros

• It lasts for ages.
• Helps your car tow better.
• It improves the engine sound.
• The engine is fully protected.
• You don’t need to clean it often.
• Installing using hand tools is straightforward.

Cons

• Some people may have to dig harder to afford one.
• Before installation, grease it.

8. Sinister Diesel SD-CAI-7.3 Power stroke Cold Air Intake

Specifications

• Product Grade: Replacement Part
• Brand: Sinister Diesel
• Fit Type: Vehicle Specific Fit
• Item Dimensions: 23.9 x 10.7 x 10.2 inches

Designed, developed, and produced in-house, Sinister Diesel intakes are known for superior performance and longevity.

CNC mandrel-bent aluminum tubing is used in all intakes to ensure optimal performance and strength. There’s no need to worry about low performance when using our kits because the silicone couplers are significantly more reliable than OEM ones.

Polished and powder-coated Sinister Diesel intakes look fabulous and endure for years.

There are no outsourced components in Sinister’s cold air intakes. As a result, fitment variability tolerances are kept to a minimum while quality control is kept to a maximum.

Pros

• Innovative design.
• Comprehensive field testing.
• Outstanding quality control.
• Durable.

Cons

• Expensive.

9. S&B Filters 75-5062D Cold Air Intake for Powerstroke 7.3L

Specifications

• Product Grade: Replacement Part
• Brand: S&B
• Fit Type: Vehicle Specific Fit
• Material: Silicone
• Item Dimensions: 23.8 x 15.6 x 14.4 inches

A good air supply system from S&B Filters significantly boosts the engine’s oxygen supply. To manage air treatment, this system uses a large-capacity, long-life silicone dry air filter.

A transparent wall makes it easy to monitor the state of the filter. The engine’s surplus heat is dissipated through a particular outlet in the system, resulting in a considerable drop in system temperature.

It tolerates large loads and temperatures up to 400F. The company claims that this method improves air supply efficiency by more than half. The efficiency and durability of silicone outweigh the disadvantages of traditional rubber.

Pros

• Boosts oxygen supply.
• It contradicts the stock system.
• Enhanced wear resistance silicone air filter.
• Temp. 400F.
• Clear lid to check filter condition.

Cons

• There are no possible drawbacks.

10. MILLION PARTS Cold Air Intake Filters for 7.3L V8

Specifications

• Product Grade: Performance Part
• Brand: MILLION PARTS
• Material: Aluminum

MILLION PARTS’ air intake is engineered to maximize motor performance while also ensuring a high level of operational security. It has a huge red intake filter that efficiently captures the tiniest particles of dust and dirt and provides a clean airflow. 

To clean the filter, you may use the tap water from your faucet. The chrome-plated aluminum pipe and all the essential mounts and clamps are included in this system.

Engine performance may be significantly improved by swapping out the factory filter and other components. Engine power is increased by using a MILLION PARTS intake system, which improves acceleration performance. 

An advantage of the CAI is that it has an extremely long lifespan and is impervious to corrosion and blockage. A specific heat dissipation system from the engine is also included to cool under heavy loads and give a more dense air supply.

MILLION PARTS intakes are known for their extended filter life and good quality. As a result of its effective filtration technology, the universal filter is low-maintenance and works well even with strong engines like the 7.3 Powerstroke.

Pros

• A large filter box.
• It’s made out of aluminum.
• It has improved acceleration and power.
• Engine safety depends on efficient filtration.

Cons

• The design is low-grade.

Types of Cold Air Intake Systems

Intake of Cold Air:

More oxygen may be found in the colder air compared to the warmer. To increase your car’s engine power because oxygen is a natural fuel source, you’ll want to utilize cooler air.

Cold air intakes may be found in the bumpers and grilles of automobiles. In addition, a heat shield surrounds the filter to maintain a cool airflow. Compared to other intakes, this one’s 7.3 Powerstroke horsepower boost is located a long way from the engine bay.

Intake of Ram-Air:

This 7.3 air filter, on the other hand, The Powerstroke air filter, is located in the front of the vehicle, just above the engine. It also feeds your car’s engine with cold air, much like the cold air intake. That is why heat shields are required on ram-air intakes.

If not, the engine’s heat might harm them. Cool air is drawn into the intakes and sent to the engine via the vehicle’s exhaust system.

Intake: Short Ram

The short ram intake takes up less room than conventional cold air intake systems. Air is delivered to your car’s engine more quickly because of its compact size.

The engine compartment serves as the source of air for the intake. As a result, the air temperature is not comparable to that provided by the other varieties. However, if you’re looking to boost your vehicle’s throttle response, this sort of cold air intake system is ideal.

6 Benefits of Using Cold Air Intake

Cool air intakes, as previously mentioned, are responsible for bringing cold air into your car’s engine. Then it’s combined with the fuel and burned until it’s gone. Here are some benefits:

Acceleration:

The responsiveness of your 7.3 Turbo-diesel will improve if you install a cold air intake.

Cold air contains more oxygen, which increases combustion, resulting in a massive explosion, which improves the engine’s power—rapid, smooth acceleration results from your 7.3 Turbo diesel’s ability to pick up speed swiftly.

Add a little bit of power:

Your car’s engine power is determined by the quality and quantity of air utilized in the combustion cycle. It’s easier for your automobile to burn gasoline when the air intake is cold since it is more conducive.

A cold air intake may enhance your 7.3 Turbo diesel’s horsepower from 5 HP to 12 HP when installed. It all relies on the settings of your Turbo.

More Miles per Gallon: 

To burn gasoline and generate power, your car needs enough oxygen. The intake will provide cold enough, oxygen-rich air for the engine’s combustion process.

Your 7.3 Turbo diesel will need more gasoline to burn the air if the oxygen concentration is low. 

Consequently, your car’s performance and gas mileage increase, and you save a lot of money on petrol.

An Improved Engine Squeak:

A louder engine noise indicates more “power” because of the increase in engine power. Under the hood, you’ll hear the source of that menacing noise.

Tow Trucks That Work:

Towing big equipment or luggage is much easier with a car with greater horsepower. The towing capacity of your 7.3 Turbo-diesel may be improved by adding a cold air inlet. When pulling more weight, it has better uphill performance as well.

Exceptional Protection:

It’s important to look for cold air intakes that have characteristics that will keep your engine clean. 

Advanced oiled filter designs constructed with synthetic materials are available on some models designed to catch any harmful contaminants.

The Bottom Line

We hope you have already picked the best intake for 7.3 Powerstroke.

To ensure that you receive the right intake for your car, you must consider the elements above. Finally, pick what works best for your automobile.

As previously said, most automobiles require at least 100,000 miles before being replaced. However, other factors come into play, such as how often you drive and the quality of your car’s upkeep.

A cold air inlet is simple to set up. It’s a fantastic do-it-yourself home improvement project. 

Want to add cold air intake to a 7.3L Powerstroke engine but aren’t sure which one to get? For me, the K&N Cold Air Intake is perfect.

FAQ’s

How much additional power can I expect from a cold air intake?

When you put a cold air intake on your Powerstroke 7.3, you’ll notice a boost in horsepower. Fuel mileage and EGTs might also be improved depending on your preferences.

Does my Powerstroke 7.3 need a cold air intake?

The most popular or best-selling cold air intake on our site may be enticing, but you should also consider the unique demands of your truck before making a purchase. For example, if you often transport big loads, you’ll need a model with improved ventilation and filtration.

Is a cold air intake voiding my warranty?

However, the warranty may be voided if the manufacturer can demonstrate that the aftermarket part caused the damage. A warranty is not voided if the cold air inlet is installed as directed.

How much is a cold air intake?

The cost of a 7.3 Powerstroke cold air intake ranges from $200 to $300 on average, depending on the diesel performance item. A significant gain in horsepower for such a small investment may surprise you.