how good is the K&N intake on the explorer? is it worth the money for better preformance?

how good is the K&N intake on the explorer? is it worth the money for better preformance?

Well, the short answer is, "In my opinion, yes".

If you're interested in a longer answer...

I installed a K&N on my '96 5.0l about 6 months ago. Initially, I had mixed emotions. I had to order it, and all the pictures on the internet showed a long chrome pipe with a filter on the end. That's not what I got. What I received was basically an air filter, a couple of mounting brackets and an adapter to remount the Mass Airflow Sensor. The engine compartment doesn't look QUITE as nice as I was hoping.

However, there was a noticable improvement in performance. Not night-and-day, but definitely noticable. In addition to being a little peppier, the engine shifts at a little higher RPM.

The installation was very straight-forward, except that the filter doesn't quite go in between the fender and the adapter plate. I have to "squish" the open end down in the shape of an egg to get it all down in there. Then it attaches easily to the adapter. Not that big of a deal, but I thought it was worth mentioning.

Inhaling is only half the problem. The engine has to be able to exhale, too. So, not too long after that I had a custom dual exhaust system installed. If you do this, find a really good shop. My explorer has two cats side-by-side. There are now two turbo mufflers behind those and separate pipes leading out the back. The left side is a b!+@#. It goes around the spare, and VERY close to the rear shock. Definitely worth it though. Airflow is greatly improved, and sound is REALLY nice!

I also changed to 31 X 10.50/15 BFG All-Terrains, though. The larger size, and extra weight have probably nullified my performance gains. However, I am very happy with the current package.

Would I do it again? Absolutely! If I ever get another Explorer a new K&N would be one of the first things on my list.