I am sure there is already a thread on this, if so, please let me know. Looking for recommendations for a CAI I can install myself - only mod I have is a 5 star edge custom tune on an otherwise stock 2016 3.5 eco fx4. Thank you!

 

My recommendation is to put a panel filter in the stock box and skip the CAI all together.

The only benefits of the CAI are engine compartment bling and induction noise. The performance gain is negligible.

 

thank you for the feedback! so the 23-35 hp gain claim by the manufacturers are BS? in conjunction with exhaust still do not recommend? Any other performance recommendations that will not break the bank that you recommend?

 

There is a cumulative effect of combining everything, but nothing has near the results of hotter tunes with increased octane or Ethanol. If you haven't done tune revisions with 5 Star, start there.

There is definitely NOT a 23-35 gain from a CAI. Somewhere in here Livernois said maybe a 8whp gain at most. That's really not worth it in my opinion. You can probably get half way there just from a high flow filter.

My understanding is that the only cost effective gains are from downpipes, resonator delete, a high flow filter, and of course tuning. Any other gains to be had are costly or negligible. At least that's my opinion. Looking forward to hearing others.

Oh, have you done a 170 thermostat? My truck is MUCH happier running cooler. With the FORScan mod I can see actual operating temps. They went from 205ish to 180ish with the thermostat.

Also, if towing or doing extended WOT pulls, an upgraded intercooler is definitely worth it. Downpipes and intercooler are probably my next steps.

 

I have not done the 170 thermostat - i read somewhere here that others recommended against the thermostat swap, but i cannot imagine how a cooler engine (especially here in FL) could do anything but help? I have to do tune revisions when i do the lift and bigger tires, so I like that recommendation for sure...

 

I had an S&B on by '13 Eco and I have one in my '18 Eco as well. Your best bang for your $$$ for sure if you are wanting a CAI.

 

S&B? forgive my ignorance, but what is that?

 

Ford tests and rates the motors on the dyno with something like a 140 degree thermostat, so take that into consideration when anyone says that the lower thermostat is bad. The hot thermostat is for emissions reasons, not longevity or performance. I could also see using the stock thermostat if you lived somewhere that is below freezing most of the year due to wanting all the heat you can get from the climate control.

 

An aftermarket CAI is one of great debate here on the forum. You'll get all kinds of answers but IMO the largest percentage of folks here will tell you to save your money in regards to a CAI as the stock unit is very good.

The performance gains just aren't there with or without changing your exhaust so if your doing for the HP gains you are indeed wasting your money. As mentioned if you like the bling or the sound they make then go for it.

The absolute best bang for the $ is a tune, especially with an ecoboost. I think a "Florida" truck would be happier with a 170-180* thermostat. Ask your tuner what they recommend.

Best of luck whatever you decide.

 

CAI on a forced induction motor is like taking your cash and literally throwing it in the trash.