2014 Explorer Limited power loss at higher altitude

[Phil Lorensen]

I have just moved from Massachusetts to Colorado Springs. I know that the altitude is what is causing my power loss but what I can't find is the best option to try and get some of it back. I have a 2014 Explorer Limited with the NA 3.5L. I have been searching the forums and can't really find anything for the newer Explorers. I have been looking at CAI's and throttle body spacers but I'm not sure as this is my first time living at such an altitude. Has anyone figured this out?

 

[joney]

I have just moved from Massachusetts to Colorado Springs. I know that the altitude is what is causing my power loss but what I can't find is the best option to try and get some of it back. I have a 2014 Explorer Limited with the NA 3.5L. I have been searching the forums and can't really find anything for the newer Explorers. I have been looking at CAI's and throttle body spacers but I'm not sure as this is my first time living at such an altitude. Has anyone figured this out?

Welcome to the Forum! This flatlander can't answer your question but in the meanwhile, there is this discussion: Altitude ?

 

[ProjectSHO89]

Previous generation discussion. Not particularly applicable.

Given the paucity of discussion in this generation's sub-forum, it doesn't appear that this has been much of a concern for forum posters.

 

[Phil Lorensen]

Welcome to the Forum! This flatlander can't answer your question but in the meanwhile, there is this discussion: Altitude ?

Ya I have been through there but couldn't find anything for the newer models

 

[Digitalgp]

A tuneup is always a great place to start, but I don't think there is really much else you can do on these newer vehicles. The PCM just has to relearn. Maybe disconnect the battery for a couple hours and see if that helps. From what I've read on these forums any kind of performance mod is basically worthless unless you get a reprogramed PCM or a custom tune done on your PCM. Idk whats available for the N/A 3.5.... everything I've seen is geared for the turbo 3.5. What do I know, besides a k&n drop in I'm still stock lol

 

[Phil Lorensen]

A tuneup is always a great place to start, but I don't think there is really much else you can do on these newer vehicles. The PCM just has to relearn. Maybe disconnect the battery for a couple hours and see if that helps. From what I've read on these forums any kind of performance mod is basically worthless unless you get a reprogramed PCM or a custom tune done on your PCM. Idk whats available for the N/A 3.5.... everything I've seen is geared for the turbo 3.5. What do I know, besides a k&n drop in I'm still stock lol

Thanks. I have found a lot of stuff about turbos being good for high altitudes and I don't have any problem with my SHO. It makes me wish I had the Explorer Sport. The problem solver/mechanic in me thinks that a fan in the intake tube to help draw air (kind of a redneck turbo) would make a difference but who knows

 

[peterk9]

Higher Altitude Means Less Power
Generally speaking, an engine loses three percent of its rated power for every 1,000 feet of altitude gained. This means you could lose as much as 20% of your vehicle's horsepower if you drive it from sea level to Big Bear Lake (with its 6,750 elevation).

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Peter

 

[Phil Lorensen]

Higher Altitude Means Less Power
Generally speaking, an engine loses three percent of its rated power for every 1,000 feet of altitude gained. This means you could lose as much as 20% of your vehicle's horsepower if you drive it from sea level to Big Bear Lake (with its 6,750 elevation).

Google Search

Peter

Ya I am aware of that. I am just looking to see if there is anything to do that will help offset the power loss.

 

[ProjectSHO89]

Ya I am aware of that. I am just looking to see if there is anything to do that will help offset the power loss.

Supplemental oxygen would do it.... Of course, the weight of the tanks might slow you down when going uphill.

 

[peterk9]

Ya I am aware of that. I am just looking to see if there is anything to do that will help offset the power loss.

Perhaps a 'tune'?

 

[joney]

Thanks. I have found a lot of stuff about turbos being good for high altitudes and I don't have any problem with my SHO. It makes me wish I had the Explorer Sport. The problem solver/mechanic in me thinks that a fan in the intake tube to help draw air (kind of a redneck turbo) would make a difference but who knows

Intriguing idea! If you do that intake fan, please share your results!

 

[xartic]

You are going to lose power due to less air being able to be compressed inside your motor. My 2011 5.0 Mustang loses a ton of power when I go over Monarch's pass in Colorado.

I also have 2014 Sport that doesn't lose much power at all because naturally higher altitudes have cooler air which is easier to compress for turbos. What you are experiencing is completely normal for a NA vehicle.

A tune may open it up more with power, but the loss you experience at altitude will always be present on a NA motor. A cold air intake is not advisable as there really isn't a true cold air intake designed for this platform. A drop in filter (aFe/AEM) would be your best bet.

 

[Phil Lorensen]

You are going to lose power due to less air being able to be compressed inside your motor. My 2011 5.0 Mustang loses a ton of power when I go over Monarch's pass in Colorado.

I also have 2014 Sport that doesn't lose much power at all because naturally higher altitudes have cooler air which is easier to compress for turbos. What you are experiencing is completely normal for a NA vehicle.

A tune may open it up more with power, but the loss you experience at altitude will always be present on a NA motor. A cold air intake is not advisable as there really isn't a true cold air intake designed for this platform. A drop in filter (aFe/AEM) would be your best bet.

Thanks. thats pretty much what I was thinking. Probably going to sell it and get a Sport after I settle in with my new job.

 

[peterk9]

Thanks. thats pretty much what I was thinking. Probably going to sell it and get a Sport after I settle in with my new job.

Sport or ST?

 

[Phil Lorensen]

Sport or ST?

Not sure. Will depend on the year that I get

 

[richard scutellaro]

I have the same problem. A NA 3.5 in Colorado Springs that is just a dog. I ended up getting a Livernois tune which helped a bit. The unfortunate thing is that I have to run 91 octane hurting the wallet at the pump. I think the tune was worth it overall

 

[peterk9]

Welcome to the Forum Richard.
Good to hear that the tune helped a little.

Peter

 

[sandsprayer]

hope your results are better!

 

[Nibroc99]

Ya I am aware of that. I am just looking to see if there is anything to do that will help offset the power loss.

The best solution for higher altitudes is forced induction - so, a turbo. In fact, turbos were originally invented to solve this problem in airplanes: Turbocharged beginnings – an early history of the turbo - AET Turbos

 

[Snolvr]

xartic explained it best. I've lived at altitude my entire 50 years, do a lot of mountain driving and won't drive anything without forced induction. Do not waste your time on a 'tune' for a NA motor, money wasted. Even a K&N drop-in filter won't net you anything but 5hp. As you said, your best option would be to upgrade to an ecoboost motor. Good luck!