The K&N E-3033 is a rectangular, washable replacement element built on oiled cotton gauze, and the manufacturer positions it as the filter for its E-0780 replacement airbox system. This air filter with air box is designed to replace your existing factory air box and air filter. The pleated media is oiled cotton fabric sandwiched between layers of epoxy-coated aluminum screen. Dirt is captured on the outside of the media and becomes part of the filtering layer, so the element can be cleaned and reused rather than replaced.
Over a disposable paper filter, the main case is long-term cost and serviceability. The factory filter is bonded into the airbox, so the manufacturer notes that replacement traditionally meant buying a whole new housing, while K&N's design lets the filter slide out, be cleaned, and go back in. The replacement filter and air box are covered by the K&N Lifetime Limited Warranty. The manufacturer frames the benefit as added horsepower and acceleration with strong filtration, but no dyno figures were confirmed. Owners on user forums warn that the oil level matters: over-oiling can coat intake sensors, and under-oiling reduces filtration. Searchers looking for a 6.0L Power Stroke K&N replacement filter, a reusable cotton gauze Super Duty airbox filter, or a 2003-2007 Excursion K&N E-0780 replacement element will find this part matches that application.
The manufacturer ties this filter to its E-0780 airbox system, which lists 2003-2007 Super Duty trucks with the 6.0L diesel and 2003-2005 Ford Excursions. Because model-year coverage differs between sources, confirm your year, engine, and airbox setup with the manufacturer before ordering.
Details vary across sources. The manufacturer's E-0780 airbox page states that the system is not legal for sale or use in California on any pollution-controlled motor vehicle, so confirm with the manufacturer before buying.
Owners on user forums report that too much oil can coat the mass airflow sensor and reduce efficiency, while too little oil reduces filtration. Apply a light, even coat and let the element dry fully before reinstalling.
Swapping only the filter is straightforward, but the manufacturer's install sheet for the full E-0780 system is more involved. Turn off the ignition and disconnect the negative battery cable. The listed tools include a 5/8" drill bit, 5/16" socket, 7/8" wrench, 2.5mm, 3mm and 4mm allen wrenches, a drill, a flat blade screwdriver, and a ratchet. Before inserting the element, clean the air filter housing and sealing surface. Some models use a plastic ring on the filter seal, which must be removed before installation. The manufacturer also notes the stop feature and the Made In USA engraving on the outer tabs of the filter. The filter has to seat correctly against the lug in the housing, and the manufacturer warns that these instructions must be followed every time the filter is serviced, otherwise the filter may not seal and engine damage could result. The kit was not designed to fit vehicles with a body lift.
