Induction
Intercooler
The #1 modification everyone needs on their Explorer ST is an upgraded intercooler. Any quality intercooler (CV Fabrication, Whipple, Steeda, CPE) are all the same performance wise, and are more then 2-times the size of the stock intercooler (which is the same size as the Focus ST intercooler). I cannot stress enough how importent this mod is, even on stock tune.
*Use of an aftermarket intercooler on 2025+ ST’s requires charge pipes (which are universal across ST’s 20-present)*
Intake
The stock intake is not too restrictive, but if you are pushing the platform to it’s limits, an intake will be helpful. If you are just tune and intercooler though, an intake will not help performance wise. Sound wise, no intake except the FenFab will help. And boy, the Fenfab V1 or V2 intake will give so many fun whooosh sounds.
Charge Pipes
The factory charge pipes are restrictive in the fact that they change diameter and shape throughout the part. As you can see in this photo, FenFab’s charge pipe is significantly better for airflow. If you want to do charge pipes it should be done with an intercooler since bumper removal is required for it, and having the bumper off will give you more working space to install the pipes.
Drop-In Air Filter
The drop-in filter is a good upgrade for the stock intake. Not sure of any gains but the re-usability that some of the aftermarket offerings feature are appealing.
Intake Snorkel
The Velosa Tech Intake Snorkel and S&B unit look neat behind the grille, but they are just gimicks. No gains.
Optimuz Intake Air Scoop
Guaranteed to be completely useless, is the Optimuz Intake Air Scoop. On their website, they give you numbers that are too good to be true.
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Explorer ST Enthusiasts 