SPE Motorsport Explorer ST Cold Side

The factory cold-side pipe on the Explorer ST is one of the biggest airflow bottlenecks on the platform. Ford crimped the OE pipe down to nearly one inch in the tightest section, which kills flow and becomes a weak point as boost increases. We built our SPE Cold Side kit to correct that restriction, improve reliability, and give owners an option to run a proper bypass valve on later model STs that no longer include one from the factory.

This is a direct-fit upgrade for all Explorer ST model years and replaces the fragile plastic OE pipe with a high-quality 5-ply silicone assembly designed for higher boost and improved throttle response.

Why the Factory Cold Side Falls Short

Crimped section reduces diameter to roughly one inch
Creates a major airflow restriction under load
Plastic construction is known to fail, especially tuned
Later 23–24 trucks have no bypass valve provision

Our kit fixes all of it.

Key Features & Benefits:

Why the Factory Cold Side Falls Short

The factory cold-side pipe has a crimped section that necks down to roughly one inch, creating a significant airflow restriction under load. Its plastic construction is also prone to failure, especially on tuned or hard-driven vehicles. To make matters worse, many 2023–2024 Explorer ST models no longer include a bypass valve provision, limiting both performance and drivability. Our kit addresses every one of these issues.

5-Ply Silicone Cold Side Pipe

This upgrade replaces the restrictive and failure-prone factory pipe with a durable 5-ply silicone assembly designed for higher boost and elevated temperatures. The full-diameter design improves airflow, lowers pressure drop, and provides the strength and reliability needed for stock or modified setups.

Bypass Valve Compatibility for 2023+

Since some 23–24 Explorer ST models rely solely on throttle blade strategy and do not include a factory bypass valve, owners lose both performance benefits and the characteristic turbo sound. This kit restores full flexibility by allowing you to run the system in factory configuration with the supplied block-off plug or install the included adapter and add a Turbosmart bypass valve for proper pressure relief and sound.

Reversible and Future-Proof

Even if you choose to run the system in its factory configuration initially, the kit includes the bypass adapter so you can add a valve later without additional parts. Everything is designed to install cleanly and revert easily if needed.

Easy Installation

The cold-side pipe is a direct drop-in between the intercooler outlet and the throttle body and requires no cutting or modifications. All fittings, clamps, and vacuum hardware are included, making the install straightforward for any level of installer.

KIT INCLUDES

SPE 5-ply silicone cold side hose
Factory-style block-off plug
Bypass valve adapter (Turbosmart-compatible)
Vacuum fittings and hardware for bypass valve routing
Stainless clamps
Turbosmart bypass valve optional

If you’re running an Explorer ST and want better performance, better durability, or that clean turbo sound, this is the upgrade to start with.