When considering modern performance Ford vehicles, the natural choices that come to mind often revolve around the Mustang or F-150. Ford has simplified this by primarily only offering these two options. However, there are a few outliers, and one of the latest models still carrying the ST trim level name is the Explorer. In contrast to earlier Explorers, the newest iteration emphasizes EcoBoost technology for performance, featuring a 3.0-liter twin-turbo engine delivering 400 horsepower to all four wheels. This combination results in a thrilling vehicle that can be surprisingly impressive on both the street and the track with room for up to seven people.
Perfecting The Platform
The Ford Explorer isn’t without its flaws, with production models featuring undersized intercoolers and an exhaust system that could benefit from larger diameter downpipes and cat-back section, one notable and easily replaceable component is the air intake system. Opting for an upgrade, we chose to replace the clunky stock air box and paper element filter with the aFe Momentum GT cold air intake system.
The Advanced Flow Engineering (aFe) Momentum GT cold air intake system serves as a comprehensive replacement for the factory air box, paper element filter, and the intake piping. Upon initial inspection, it becomes evident that the Momentum GT airbox is considerably larger than the OE unit, incorporating two 6-inch cone filters internally, significantly expanding the air filter intake surface area. According to aFe, these filters produce an increase in airflow, rising from the stock 295 cfm to 375 — an impressive leap, but expected with more free-flowing filters.
The airbox constitutes only one of the two components in the kit, the other being the intake piping responsible for channeling air from the intake box to the turbos. While the OE design is functional, it is tailored to meet the performance levels offered from the factory. In the realm of turbo setups, the mantra holds true: more air translates to enhanced performance. Moreover, if your intention is to push the performance boundaries of your Explorer ST further, the air intake system becomes the first step for achieving that goal. The Momentum GT intake piping distinguishes itself by not only being larger than the Ford units but also featuring smoother bends, facilitating improved airflow while still conforming to the constraints of the Explorer’s…
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