Plastic vs. Aluminum: Why you should replace the factory cold-side pipe.

[RustBucketJoe]

Was pulling a grade with 10k lbs behind me when my factory plastic cold-side intercooler pipe exploded. Lost all boost and had to limp to the shoulder. Is this a 'when, not if' failure for all 6.7L owners? Which aluminum replacement kit fits the best without rubbing?

 

[SteelHedge]

Welcome to the 'Blown Pipe' club. It’s definitely a matter of when, not if. Mine went out at 45k miles while passing a semi on the highway—scared the crap out of me, sounded like a shotgun went off under the hood. The factory plastic can't handle the heat-soak and 30+ PSI of boost over time. I swapped mine for the S&B Filters aluminum kit. It fits perfectly and uses a heavy-duty silicone boot that won't crack. Don't wait until you're stranded in the middle of nowhere to fix this.