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Cold Air Intake for Ford Explorer Sport Trac (2001-2003) 4.0L V6 Engine Blue



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Give your 2001-2003 Ford Explorer or Sport Trac 4.0L V6 the airflow it's been missing with this performance cold air intake—engineered to deliver sharper throttle response, added torque, and a more aggressive engine note.

More Power for the Proven SOHC V6

The third-generation Explorer and first-gen Sport Trac are known for their reliability and capability, but the factory airbox wasn't built for performance—it was built for quiet operation and emissions compliance. This intake system changes that by replacing restrictive stock components with smooth-flowing T-304 aluminum tubing and a high-flow washable filter. The result? Your 4.0L V6 breathes deeper, pulls harder, and sounds like it means business.

Whether you're merging onto the highway, towing a trailer, or navigating steep grades, this intake gives your engine the oxygen it needs to respond instantly. You'll feel the difference in throttle crispness and low-end torque—two areas where the stock setup falls short.

What Makes This Intake Different

  • T-304 Aluminum Tubing: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and designed to reduce intake air temperatures for denser combustion
  • Washable Performance Filter: Reusable design saves money and delivers consistent airflow over the long haul
  • Complete Hardware Kit: Includes all clamps, couplers, and brackets for a hassle-free bolt-on install
  • Aggressive Induction Sound: Deep, mechanical growl that reminds you there's a V6 working under the hood

Real-World Performance Benefits

  • Improved Throttle Response: Instant pedal feel from idle to redline
  • Noticeable Torque Gains: Better pulling power for towing and climbing
  • Horsepower Increase: Measurable gains across the powerband
  • Fuel Efficiency Potential: Optimized air-to-fuel ratio can improve MPG when driven conservatively

Installation & Fitment

This is a straightforward bolt-on upgrade. Remove the factory airbox, install the new aluminum tubing and filter, secure everything with the included clamps, and you're done. Basic hand tools and about an hour in the driveway are all you need. Before starting, disconnect the negative battery cable and leave it off for at least one minute after installation to allow the ECU to relearn airflow parameters. Make sure the engine is completely cool before you begin.

Compatible Vehicles

  • 2001-2003 Ford Explorer (4.0L V6)
  • 2001-2003 Ford Explorer Sport Trac (4.0L V6)

What's in the Box

  • T-304 aluminum intake tubing
  • High-flow washable air filter
  • Couplers, clamps, and mounting hardware

Engine Safety Rating
Difficulty 


Fitment

Make

Ford

Engine Size

  • 4.0L

Year

  • 2001
  • 2002
  • 2003

Installation & Tools

The Wrench Time

  • Estimated Time: 45-60 Minutes
  • Difficulty: 3/10 - Beginner friendly, but requires a steady hand when handling delicate factory electronics.

Tools You Will Need

  • 10mm wrench (for the battery terminal)
  • 10mm socket, ratchet, and extension (for airbox bolts)
  • 8mm socket or Flathead screwdriver (for hose clamps)
  • T20 Torx bit (commonly required for the factory MAF housing screws)
  • Pliers (for the factory spring clamps)
Mechanic’s Pro Tip (The "Gotcha"):
The 4.0L SOHC engine is notorious for brittle plastic vacuum and PCV lines. When removing the factory breather hose from the air intake tube, do not bend or force the plastic 90-degree elbow. It will snap, leaving you stranded. Wiggle it out with extreme patience. Furthermore, the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor wire is highly sensitive—never touch the exposed filament with your bare hands or tools, or you’ll be chasing idle surges and check engine codes for weeks.

Phase 1: Removing the Factory Part

  1. Disconnect the Battery: Always start by disconnecting the negative battery terminal using a 10mm wrench to prevent check engine lights and reset the ECU on your 2001-2003 Ford Explorer 4.0L.
  2. Unplug the MAF Sensor: Locate the Mass Air Flow sensor on the factory intake tube. Slide the red locking tab back, press the release clip down, and gently unplug the wiring harness. Tuck the harness aside.
  3. Remove the PCV Breather Hose: Using pliers, compress the spring clamp and disconnect the crankcase breather hose from the factory intake tube. Remember the Pro Tip: treat this brittle plastic line like glass.
  4. Loosen the Hose Clamps: Grab your 8mm socket and loosen the band clamp securing the intake tube to the throttle body, as well as the clamp holding the tube to the airbox.
  5. Extract the Factory Airbox: Remove the factory airbox mounting bolts using your 10mm socket and an extension. Lift the entire airbox assembly out of the engine bay. Watch out for the rubber mounting grommets—they often stick to the bottom pegs.
  6. Rescue the MAF Sensor: Carefully unbolt the MAF sensor from the bulky factory housing using a 10mm socket or a T20 Torx bit (fastener types vary slightly depending on Job 1 vs Job 2 build dates). Pull the sensor out straight to avoid damaging the delicate internal wire element.

Phase 2: Installing the Cold Air Intake for Ford Explorer Sport Trac (2001-2003) 4.0L V6 Engine Blue

  1. Prep the Heat Shield: Assemble the aftermarket heat shield and rubber edge trim. Drop it into the factory airbox location and bolt it down utilizing the original mounting points and your 10mm socket.
  2. Transfer the MAF Sensor: Carefully slide your factory MAF sensor into the new Cold Air Intake for Ford Explorer Sport Trac (2001-2003) 4.0L V6 Engine Blue. Secure it with the provided hardware. Ensure the sensor is facing the correct direction—the open side of the sensor element must face the incoming air.
  3. Install the Silicone Couplers: Slide the supplied blue silicone couplers over the throttle body and the end of the new intake tube. Slip the new hose clamps loosely over the couplers so they are ready to tighten.
  4. Route and Lock Down the Tube: Guide the new intake tube through the heat shield and slot it into the throttle body coupler. Once the alignment is perfect and not rubbing on any hard lines, lock it down by securely tightening all hose clamps with your 8mm socket.
  5. Mount the Filter and Reconnect Hoses: Attach the high-flow air filter to the end of the intake tube inside the heat shield and tighten the clamp. Reconnect the PCV breather hose onto the intake tube’s welded fitting. Plug the MAF sensor wiring harness back in and engage the red locking tab.
  6. ECU Relearn Startup: Reconnect your negative battery terminal and tighten it with your 10mm wrench. Turn the key and start the engine. Do not touch the gas pedal for at least 20 seconds. Let the vehicle idle on its own so the ECU can adapt its fuel trims to the increased volume of cold air.

Disclaimer: This is a general guide provided for the 2001-2003 Ford Explorer 4.0L. Always refer to your factory service manual for exact torque specifications and safety procedures.

Warranty

All products are backed by our Limited Lifetime Warranty. We stand by our quality. [See terms]

Cold Air Intake for Ford Explorer Sport Trac (2001-2003) 4.0L V6 Engine Blue

$89.95