Upgrade intercooler or pusher pipes?

[avocadofarmer]

In the spirit of self containment I've decided to upgrade either the intercooler (PPE with hot and cold side piping) OR the PPE intake pusher kit. Both are the same price. I've read that the factory intercooler is a tad restrictive and that you can expect temp and efficiency gains with a replacement. Also read people very happy with the pusher pipes too.

The truck is all stock and I intend to keep it that way. Might add a emissions on tune in the next year or two. I haven't once been in a situation where I felt like more power was necessary. I'd probably be doing these mods for increased efficiency, better throttle response, etc.

Truck gets long runs on the highway with a camper on it and a few short runs moving heavy equipment/payload. Neither of which get close to requiring it to produce full power.

PPE makes such good looking stuff...

 

[JTredway]

the sandwhiched brasing design of the OEM intercooler has been in some instances known to leak over time. I did a sinceyouwasmod "since you was there" when I had a bunch of work done on my truck for the DCR. one of the things I did was the Mishimoto intercooler, pretty easy to adapt it to the larger IC piping that I did at the same time for my pusher kit (already had the manifold installed.

If i read your post correctly you are deciding between pusher style intake manifold (for all intents and purposes) OR getting the upgraded intercooler to go along with your larger H/C Pipes. I would say I noticed more with my intake manifold over my intercooler. Remember intercoolers don't really give power but moreover they maintain power by managing the heat better (yes, one that has less pressure drop and stuff can and in the powerstroke allegedly increase power). I would approach it as better power/heat management and go with the "pusher" style kit first, then if you ever go in for some coolant work throw the intercooler in with that.

 

[HeavyAssault]

New pipes (including the intake Y) are a better long term upgrade. The OEM cold side can and does fail.

 

[avocadofarmer]

OK...I see what you guys are getting at. Unfortunately the PPE package deals include one or the other...but it does look you can get the hot/cold side pipes a la carte. Sounds like the pusher style intake is the way to go to start. I'll probably pull the trigger on it in a few weeks. Should pry at least do a DPK while I've got the intake off from what I hear.