If you’ve checked out our 5 best mods for the 3.5 EcoBoost guide, downpipes topped the list as one of the best mods for the F-150. Downpipes are the most restrictive component of the F150’s exhaust system which means upgrading to a less restrictive downpipe can have some significant performance and power benefits.
This guide will focus on the benefits of upgrading your downpipes, the difference between catless and high-flow catted downpipes, and the best downpipe brands for your F150. While this guide is more tailored towards the F150 specifically, it is applicable to all Ford’s with the 3.5 EcoBoost engine.
What is a Downpipe? Ford F150 EcoBoost
Since the idea of turbochargers is pretty new for Ford trucks, we’ll give a brief overview on what a downpipe is and why it’s a common modification for turbo engines.
A downpipe is a component of the exhaust system that bolts up from the turbocharger to the cat-back portion of the exhaust. Downpipes are unique to turbocharged engines but are in a way similar to headers on a naturally aspirated engine in the sense that they are the first component of the exhaust system.
In most turbo engines, as is with the 3.5 EcoBoost, the downpipe houses the primary catalytic converter. Because it bolts directly up to the turbo itself and houses the cat, it is the most important and most restrictive component of the exhaust system. Adding a catback exhaust to your F150 usually doesn’t add too much power because all of the restriction sits within the downpipe.
With the restriction being in the downpipe and the downpipe being attached to the turbo, it creates a lot of backpressure. This backpressure affects the turbine wheels ability to spool as the pressure creates restriction. You want the highest pressures pre-turbo and the lowest pressures post-turbo. Upgrading the downpipe is the best way to lower post-turbo pressure.
3.5 Ecoboost Downpipe Upgrade Benefits
- 10-25whp gains
- 10-25wtq gains
- Improved turbo spool and turbo efficiency
- Less backpressure
- Decreased EGT’s (exhaust gas temps)
- Slightly louder exhaust tone
The primary benefit of upgraded downpipes for your F150 is the reduction of backpressure in the exhaust system. Running no exhaust system after the turbo is actually the best exhaust for a turbo engine, however, this isn’t quite possible due to emissions. However, because the downpipes house the primary catalytic converters, they become the biggest creator of backpressure in the exhaust system.
Turbochargers spool more efficiently when there is a bigger pressure drop from pre- to post-turbo. Because the catalytic converter is restrictive it creates post-turbo pressure which reduces the turbochargers ability to spool. By reducing this backpressure there is less force against the turbo allowing to spool more easily and more quickly. And a more efficient turbo is a more powerful turbo which is where the majority of the power gains come from.
Additionally, the benefit of downpipes is increased when they are coupled with a tune and upgraded intake.
Gen I vs. Gen II 3.5 EcoBoost Power Differences
The Gen I 3.5 produces 365hp and 420lb-ft. of torque bone stock while the Gen II produces 375hp-450hp and 470-570lb-ft. of torque.
The primary difference creating the increased power levels is the addition of port injection alongside direct injection. Additionally, the turbine wheels are lighter and an electronic wastegate was added. While the performance benefits of upgraded downpipes are similar for both generations of the 3.5 EcoBoost, Gen II engines will see slightly more power gains due to the turbocharger upgrades.
F150 Catless vs. Catted Downpipes
The two options for upgraded downpipes are catless or high-flow catted downpipes. As the name insinuates, catless downpipes completely remove the catalytic converter. Because the catalytic converter is the most restrictive part of the exhaust system, opting for a catless option will reduce backpressure the most and provide slightly better power gains.
High-flow catted downpipes keep the catalytic converter but opt for a higher flowing cat that is still emissions legal. However, because they still have a cat they will provide less power gains to the tune of about 5-8whp compared to catless options. Although the tradeoff is keeping your car legal and being able to pass emissions testing.
While catted options provide less horsepower gains, the increased flow is still a huge improvement over the OEM downpipe. Given the recent emissions crackdowns, sticking with a catted option is the safe bet. We would only recommend the catless option for those who are trying to push serious power for track applications, usually with and upgraded turbocharger setup.
The only other worthy mention benefit of catless downpipes is the bang for the buck factor. Because they are a hollow pipe without a cat, they are about half the price of the high-flow catted options.
Biggest power gains + best bang for the buck = catless.
Emissions legal + still good power gains = high-flow catted.
Best 3.5 EcoBoost F150 Downpipes
Due to recent emissions activity with the EPA finding catless downpipes for sale online is becoming difficult. The best way to find some is to look on forums and marketplaces for used options.
Additionally, it is worth noting that EPA regulations vary by state to state. Catted downpipes are still considered illegal in some states such as California so please check what your state and local regulations are for downpipe upgrades. While most of the catalytic converters are EPA-approved, they can still be illegal in certain states.
1) Great Value: 3.5 EcoBoost CVF Catted Downpipes
CV Fabrication (CVF) is a newer company when it comes to 3.5 EcoBoost upgrades. However, they offer some high-quality products at great pricing. That also applies to their F-150 downpipes for the 3.5L twin turbo V6 engine. CVF offers the downpipes with 400 cell high-flow cats. They’re 3″ diameter downpipes made from T304 stainless steel.
This is a great option from top to bottom. At $750 it’s a little pricier than catless options, but a very good price for a high-flow catted downpipe. They back their quality products with a lifetime warranty. In our opinion, there isn’t much more you can ask for from a F-150 3.5L downpipe upgrade.
Anyway, we like CVF so much that we spent some time developing a relationship. Ultimately, we were able to get a 5% coupon code (TUNINGPRO) for any of our readers. That brings the tag down to $712.50, which is a darn good price for quality stainless steel downpipes. If you’re set on catted F-150 downpipes then look no further; there are options for all 2011-2020 F-150 3.5 EcoBoost models.
Price: $749.99 ($712.50 w/ code TUNINGPRO)
Buy Here: 2011-2014 CVF Catted Downpipes
CVF 2015-2016 F-150 High-Flow Downpipes
2017-2020 3.5 EcoBoost CVF Downpipes
2) Budget Breaker: AMS Performance F150 High-Flow Downpipe
AMS offers a top of the line downpipe option for the 3.5 EcoBoost F150. Coming in at $1,800 this is one the most expensive and premium options on the market, designed specifically for race and high power applications. With 3″ piping and a 25% increase in inlet surface area, the AMS downpipes offer the highest flow and most backpressure reduction in the market.
Price: $1,799
Buy here: AMS 3.5 EcoBoost Downpipe Upgrade
Catless Option: aFe Power F150 Downpipes
For those looking for a catless option, aFe Power manufactures a 3″ catless option. Coming in around $500 these downpipes will offer more flow and less backpressure compared to the catted options. However, these downpipes are aluminized steel and not stainless steel. This will cause these downpipes to wear down and rust more quickly in wet climates compared to stainless steel options.
The one setback to this downpipe is that it is catless making it illegal. Additionally, it is becoming more and more difficult to find them for sale online as most performance parts providers are backing away from selling catless products online.
It is worth noting that there are a lot more catless downpipe options available on eBay. If you go that route just make sure you verify the fitment of the piping before purchasing. Catless exhaust systems are pretty much just hollow pipes so opting for a cheaper eBay option isn’t going to hurt your engine.
Price: ~$500
Buy here: aFe Power Catless Downpipes
F150 3.5 EcoBoost Downpipe Summary
Upgrading the downpipe on your F150 EcoBoost 3.5 is hands down one of the best modifications. Especially when coupled with a tune and intake, higher flowing downpipes will provide exceptional performance benefits through increased turbo efficiency.
Catless options will be slightly louder and offer 5-8whp gains above high flow options. High flow catted options are legal in most states with the exception of CA and NY currently. Neither catless nor catted options will provide extremely loud exhaust notes. You should expect very modest sound improvements unless you opt for adding a full cat-back system with the downpipes.
Overall, downpipes are a worthwhile upgrade for those looking to add some additional power to their 3.5 EcoBoost F150’s.
FAQs
How much HP can a stock 3.5 EcoBoost handle? ›
The 3.5 twin turbo engine is capable of 500-550+whp on stock turbos with simple bolt-ons. Impressive numbers. However, some owners are always looking for more and that's where twin turbo upgrades come into play.
How do you get the turbo sound out of 3.5 EcoBoost? ›First the cold air intake the exhaust as well as tuned it and couldn't get any turbo sound from it
Does the 3.5 EcoBoost have forged internals? ›At the core of the 3.5L EcoBoost rests an aluminum block and heads, a forged steel crankshaft, forged powdered metal connecting rods, and cast aluminum, direct injection pistons.
How much boost does a 3.5 EcoBoost make? ›...
Specifications.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Camshaft drive | Chain |
Most tunes for the 3.5 EcoBoost will offer gains of about 50-100whp with no other mods. Torque can see improvements of 70-120 to the wheels. Excellent gains for a tune only. The higher end of the power gains will mostly be for tuned 3.5L V6 engines running 93 octane, race gas, or E85 blends.
How long do turbos last on 3.5 EcoBoost? ›How Long do Turbos Last on the 3.5 EcoBoost? The 3.5 EcoBoost life expectancy has improved greatly in recent years, and Ford reports the turbo engine to offer approximately 150,000 miles. However, if you take care of the engine and get regular maintenance and services, it can last up to 250,000.
What makes a turbo whistle louder? ›Raising boost pressure the engine is able to take in more air, thus making the turbo spin harder, spooling up and making louder sound. Extra air being forced into the engine is commonly known as boost pressure. It can be adjusted by controlling the amount of exhaust gas flowing through the turbo.
Can you make an EcoBoost Sound good? ›A simple resonator delete is the most cost-effective way to make your EcoBoost Mustang louder and more aggressive in tone. Getting rid of your resonator allows for better flow and more turbo noise to come through the pipes. You'll also save a bit of weight.
How much horsepower does a 3.5 twin turbo EcoBoost have? ›3.5L EcoBoost®
Packed with power and performance, this mighty turbocharged V6 engine with 10-speed automatic transmission is capable of delivering 375 horsepower and best-in-class 470 lb. -ft. of torque.
Ford was no exception. So it made improvements to the EcoBoost V6 in 2017 by adding port injection. So the 2017 updates dealt with the timing chain, carbon buildup, and also problems with the ignition system.
How many miles is a 3.5 EcoBoost good for? ›
The EcoBoost is built tough and is designed to last a long time. A factory standard 3.5 EcoBoost engine can give you up to 250 000 miles (402 000 km), and more if the vehicle has been well taken care of with regularly scheduled maintenance and no major alterations.
How are EcoBoost turbos cooled? ›“The EcoBoost engine uses passive thermal siphoning for water cooling,” Plagens explains. “During normal engine operation, the engine's water pump cycles coolant through the center bearing. After engine shutdown renders the water pump inactive, the coolant flow reverses.
What size turbo is on a 3.5 EcoBoost? ›3.5L EcoBoost Stock Turbos and Intercooler
The stock manifold's turbo outlets are very small at ~1.18″ considering 1.75L of displacement will breathe through it!
Your vehicle is designed to operate on regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum pump (R+M)/2 octane rating of 87. Some fuel stations, particularly those in high altitude areas, offer fuels posted as regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating below 87.
How much boost can a stock EcoBoost handle? ›In all stock components, the general rule is 25 PSI is the max the EcoBoost can handle in stock form.
Which engine is better Ford 5.0 or 3.5 EcoBoost? ›The 3.5 liter EcoBoost (second-generation high output variant) is capable of producing more power and torque than the 5.0 V8. The 3.5 is only available in two variants of the F150, which produce about 450 horses and 510 LB/FT of torque. On the other hand, the 5.0 produces 395 horses and 400 LB/FT of torque.
How much does it cost to replace timing chain on F150 3.5 EcoBoost? ›The Best in Auto Repair
The average cost for a Ford F-150 timing chain tensioner replacement is between $1,465 and $1,744. Labor costs are estimated between $1,061 and $1,338 while parts are priced between $404 and $406.
3.5 EcoBoost engines are also in many other Ford models. With anywhere from 355-450hp it's already a great engine from the factory. However, some owners want to take their twin turbo V6 engine to the next level. A few simple 3.5 EcoBoost performance upgrades can easily take the engine to 450-550+whp.
What is EcoBoost shudder? ›Many Ford F-150 pickups with EcoBoost have a condition where the vehicle shudders or stalls during normal use. In the most severe of cases, the truck will actually go into "limp mode" causing the engine to lose all power. This issue seems to be primarily from humid states like Texas and Florida.
How often should you change spark plugs on 3.5 EcoBoost? ›Generally, experts suggest replacing your spark plugs every 30,000 miles, although it can vary depending on your car.
What is the best EcoBoost engine? ›
In our opinion, the Ford 2.7 and 3.5 EcoBoost engines are by far the best engines in the Ford F-150. They both offer an excellent balance of power, performance, towing, fuel economy, and reliability. It's hard to go wrong with either engine.
How do I get my turbo to flutter? ›Turbo flutter, also known as compressor surge, occurs when you step off the accelerator after achieving peak boost. While the engine shuts off airflow, all the pressure from the turbo is still there — looking for somewhere to escape.
Is turbo whistle a problem? ›A "turbo whistle" usually indicates a worn and failing turbo bearing, which is pretty much all there is to go wrong with a turbo.
How do you turbo flutter with your mouth? ›TURBO FLUTTER WITH MOUTH (Tutorial) - YouTube
Does EcoBoost have active exhaust? ›Both the 2018+ GT and 2019+ EcoBoost will have a valve on the inner tip on both the driver and passenger side if they're equipped with Active Exhaust. Through the exhaust tips, you should be able to see down both exhaust tips to the pipe.
Can you put an exhaust on an EcoBoost? ›The 3.5L EcoBoost V6 under the hood of your 2021-2022 F150 may be powerful, but the stock exhaust system sure doesn't let you know it. Adding an aftermarket exhaust system can give your awesome 2021-2022 F150 EcoBoost a brutal, new sound and possibly some extra power.
What is Ford active exhaust? ›Active valve exhaust systems allow drivers to vary the loudness of their exhaust systems to suit their needs. Ford's active exhaust system is now available as an option on all 2019 Mustangs, including the EcoBoost. The Mustang's active valve exhaust has four settings: Quiet, Normal, Sport, and Track.
Whats the difference between the 3.5 EcoBoost and the 3.5 high output? ›Essentially an upgraded version of the 3.5-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo gasoline V-6, the High-Output variant does exactly what its name suggests. This F-150 engine makes a muscular 450 hp and 510 lb-ft of torque for a stronger, sportier character than the engine it's based on.
Can a 3.5 EcoBoost run E85? ›This is a complete plug and play kit to install a Bluetooth ethanol sensor in your F-150/Raptor 3.5L Ecoboost in about 30 minutes. The kit includes the following: New 3/8" E85 compatible fuel line with integrated ethanol sensor. Genuine Continental ethanol sensor.
Is V6 twin turbo better than V8? ›Often, there is little output difference between a V6 and a V8. For example, the Ford F-150's 5.0-liter V8 produces 400 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque. Its 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 generates 400 hp and 500 lb-ft of torque. As for towing, the V6 outshines the V8 in the above example.
How much does it cost to replace Cam phasers on 3.5 EcoBoost? ›
Replacing cam phasers is not cheap. You can expect to pay anywhere from $800 to $2500 to get the job done by a professional.
How much HP can a 3.5 L V6 have? ›The 3.5L twin turbo V6 engine delivers an impressive 355-450 horsepower in most applications. However, a variant of the 3.5L EcoBoost making 660 horsepower is also found in the Ford GT.
How do I know if my EcoBoost turbo is bad? ›- The car has noticeable power loss.
- The acceleration of the car seems slow and noisy.
- The car doesn't easily maintain high speeds.
- There is smoke coming from the exhaust.
- There is an engine fault light on the dashboard.
They for sure make more power on 93 than they do on 87 or 89 although they run fine on 87 and 89!! It's a turbocharged vehicle...for best performance...you run premium although you can run **** gas in it.
How long does an F150 transmission last? ›Ensuring the engine and transmission are maintained is key to keeping an F-150 running as long as possible. F-150s from 2004 to 2009 struggle with motors and transmissions that can give out as early as 100,000 miles. Realistically, strive for 200,000 miles or more, but expect 150,000.
What is the most reliable F150 engine? ›Which Ford F-150 Engine is the Most Reliable? In terms of reliability, you may be surprised to know that the 3.5-liter EcoBoost is the best pick of the bunch. According to Popular Mechanics, the 3.5-liter EcoBoost is the sweet spot in the F-150's engine lineup. Thanks to its generous 375 horsepower and 475 lb.
Do I need to let my turbo cool down? ›Turbocharged engines do need to cool down before they are turned off. But in nearly all driving conditions, the engine does not reach temperatures that require a deliberate cooling down period.
Is EcoBoost just a turbo? ›EcoBoost® engines are able to provide such impressive power and efficiency metrics because they are turbocharged and use direct injection. Turbocharged engines force in more air than a normal engine would receive, improving power output without increasing the size of the engine.
Who makes Ford's turbochargers? ›Borg Warner turbochargers are also used in Ford's 1.0-liter, 1.6-liter, and 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines in North America, Europe, and China in passenger cars. The 2.0-liter is used in the Explorer and Edge.
How much HP can a stock 3.5 EcoBoost handle? ›The 3.5 twin turbo engine is capable of 500-550+whp on stock turbos with simple bolt-ons. Impressive numbers. However, some owners are always looking for more and that's where twin turbo upgrades come into play.
How much horsepower can a tuned EcoBoost make? ›
The engine and transmission are tuned by 5 Star. The result is a crazy 601 hp at around 5,600 rpm and 662 lb-ft of torque at around 3,400 rpm. If you account for drive-train loses, this 3.5-liter V6 is making in the neighborhood of 720 horsepower and the crank.
Does the 3.5 EcoBoost have forged internals? ›At the core of the 3.5L EcoBoost rests an aluminum block and heads, a forged steel crankshaft, forged powdered metal connecting rods, and cast aluminum, direct injection pistons.
Can I run 93 octane in my EcoBoost? ›You can fill 87 octane gas in any year Mustang EcoBoost and it will run just fine. 93 pump gas is recommended to get the most performance out of a stock EcoBoost.
Does premium gas increase mpg? ›So is Higher Octane Fuel More Efficient? In a word, no. On its own paying for premium gasoline does not make your car run better or get greater gas mileage. Giving your car the fuel it requires to run smoothly and efficiently, without damage to the engine, does make a difference in your fuel mileage.
Why is the EcoBoost engine so powerful? ›The EcoBoost system works through the clever application of a turbocharger and direct-injection system. The turbocharger forces more air into the engine than it would normally receive, and the added air and fuel makes the engine more powerful. This is where the 'Boost' in EcoBoost comes from.
How much boost does a 3.5 EcoBoost make? ›...
Specifications.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Camshaft drive | Chain |
Ford's Ecoboost platform is a potent little package. The 2.3-liter turbocharged four banger pumps out 310 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque, thanks to 20 psi of boost.
How long will a EcoBoost engine last? ›How long will an EcoBoost engine last? As with all mainstream engines, EcoBoost engines have been designed to last. They should easily clock 80,000-100,000 miles with little need for repair, so long as the vehicle is regularly and properly serviced.
How much boost can a stock EcoBoost handle? ›In all stock components, the general rule is 25 PSI is the max the EcoBoost can handle in stock form.
How much horsepower can a tuned EcoBoost make? ›The engine and transmission are tuned by 5 Star. The result is a crazy 601 hp at around 5,600 rpm and 662 lb-ft of torque at around 3,400 rpm. If you account for drive-train loses, this 3.5-liter V6 is making in the neighborhood of 720 horsepower and the crank.
Is 3.5 or 5.0 EcoBoost better? ›
The 3.5 liter EcoBoost (second-generation high output variant) is capable of producing more power and torque than the 5.0 V8. The 3.5 is only available in two variants of the F150, which produce about 450 horses and 510 LB/FT of torque. On the other hand, the 5.0 produces 395 horses and 400 LB/FT of torque.
Does 3.5 EcoBoost require premium fuel? ›Your vehicle is designed to operate on regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum pump (R+M)/2 octane rating of 87. Some fuel stations, particularly those in high altitude areas, offer fuels posted as regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating below 87.
How many pounds does EcoBoost boost make? ›Ford's Ecoboost platform is a potent little package. The 2.3-liter turbocharged four banger pumps out 310 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque, thanks to 20 psi of boost.
How long will a EcoBoost engine last? ›How long will an EcoBoost engine last? As with all mainstream engines, EcoBoost engines have been designed to last. They should easily clock 80,000-100,000 miles with little need for repair, so long as the vehicle is regularly and properly serviced.
How much horsepower does a 3.5 liter EcoBoost have? ›The available 3.5L EcoBoost® V6 with 10-speed transmission delivers power ratings of 400 horsepower and 500 lb. -ft. of torque*, **.
How many turbos does the 3.5 EcoBoost have? ›The 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine is twin-turbocharged and intercooled with Ford port and direct fuel injection for exceptional power, and built with an aluminum block and cylinder heads.
When did EcoBoost 3.5 2 come out? ›In 2017, Ford began rolling out the 2nd gen EcoBoost in some models. It sees a bump to 375-450 horsepower in most models.
How many miles will a F-150 3.5 EcoBoost last? ›The maximum reliable mileage you can get from an F150 2.7 EcoBoost is around 200k to 230k miles. A factory standard 3.5 EcoBoost engine can safely deliver in excess of 250 000 miles (402 000 km) If the vehicle has been well looked after with regularly scheduled maintenance and no major modifications.
Which F-150 engine is fastest? ›The 5.0L V8 gets a best-in-class maximum payload rating of up to 3,325 lbs, which is also the most powerful in the lineup.
Is V6 twin-turbo better than V8? ›Often, there is little output difference between a V6 and a V8. For example, the Ford F-150's 5.0-liter V8 produces 400 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque. Its 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 generates 400 hp and 500 lb-ft of torque. As for towing, the V6 outshines the V8 in the above example.
What gas is best for 3.5 EcoBoost? ›
They for sure make more power on 93 than they do on 87 or 89 although they run fine on 87 and 89!! It's a turbocharged vehicle...for best performance...you run premium although you can run **** gas in it.
Why is the EcoBoost engine so powerful? ›The EcoBoost system works through the clever application of a turbocharger and direct-injection system. The turbocharger forces more air into the engine than it would normally receive, and the added air and fuel makes the engine more powerful. This is where the 'Boost' in EcoBoost comes from.
What is the best gas for a Ford f150? ›For optimal performance, gasoline with an octane rating of 91 or higher is recommended. F-150's with a yellow fuel cap are Flexible Fuel Vehicles which means they can take regular 87 octane gasoline, or E-85, which consists of 15% regular gasoline mixed with 85% ethanol.