I have asked this question in another thread and didn't get much input, so I wanted to start a thread specifically for this so hopefully I'll get enough information to make an educated decision.

What are the consequences of partially blocking airflow to the intercooler? I really want to put a brush-guard and winch on this truck but it'll be partially blocking the airflow to the intercooler. Surely there are some folks on here who are running winches on their 3.5EBs.

Is my only option for accomplishing this, to buy one of those intercooler relocation kits that are $1400? Or should I be fine going ahead and putting on a Warn or Westin guard with winch?

 

I don't really think it's an issue, seeing as most of the trucks out there have the intercooler opening 80% blocked by the front license plate anyway.

 

I've noticed this as well which is one reason I took mine off when I bought it.

 

There is an aftermarket intercooler that relocates it up higher. Might be a good solution. Big $ though.
http://www.stage3motorsports.com/201...-Upgrades.html

 

um i thought the trucks with the center licence plate were all 5.0 or 6.2. the ecoboost usually has the plate on the driver side.

 

No that was pre 2015, 2015 and above even the EB's have centered license plates

 

lol i had to look at the pic of the rental 17 i had just now. learned something new today. now time for a nap i guess.

 

Pretty sure Ford designed this generation with the front plate mount in mind. They didn't include other obstructions in the design. Pretty sure this is why the snow plow option is not available on any EB equipped truck.

 

I have a 2015 3.5 eco with the middle license plate frame. 2015 on they moved the location of the inter cooler so now that spot being covered by the license plate does not interfere with the air flow. You are right in previous years the ecoboosts all had them to the side. I have had a plate on since I purchased and have no issues at all

 

Mine was in the center on my 2015 eb. Thankfully we don't need front plates in pa. The first thing I did to the truck was throw the plate mount in the trash!