The K&N 57-2549 is a full cold-air intake system for the 5.4L supercharged V8 in the 2001-04 Ford Lightning and 2002-03 F-150 Harley-Davidson Edition. The kit uses a roto-molded HDPE tube and a large, washable oiled cotton filter, and it replaces the factory air filter and intake tube. A custom heat shield helps protect intake air from the high temperature of your engine bay, which matters on a supercharged truck that already runs a hot engine bay. Searchers looking for a 2001-2004 Lightning cold air intake or an F150 Harley Davidson CAI will find this kit's fitment and tube design listed in the manufacturer's documentation.
The case for paying for this kit rests on the manufacturer's stated performance claims and on lower filter upkeep. The manufacturer guarantees increased horsepower and torque and lists an estimated torque gain of 15.9 lbft. Since the filter is reusable, the manufacturer says it only requires cleaning every 100,000 miles under normal highway driving conditions, which avoids recurring disposable-filter purchases. Before ordering, confirm your truck's year and body configuration, because details on the 2004 application vary across sources.
No. The manufacturer's install documentation states that this kit was not designed to fit vehicles with a body lift.
The manufacturer says the washable oiled cotton filter needs cleaning only about every 100,000 miles under normal highway driving conditions. Harsher conditions such as dusty or off-road use will call for more frequent cleaning.
Yes, possibly. The manufacturer's install sheet notes that disconnecting the negative battery cable erases pre-programmed electronic memories, so record radio presets and other settings first. Some radios also require an anti-theft code after reconnecting, which is typically listed in the owner's manual.
The manufacturer says a typical install takes 60 minutes or less, and requires only simple hand tools. K&N's general install guide lists a ratchet, extension, 14mm and 10mm sockets, an Allen key, flat and Phillips screwdrivers, a 10mm wrench, and pliers. Start by turning off the ignition and disconnecting the negative battery cable, and note that the kit's instructions warn about radio codes and memory loss. Disconnect the three vent lines under the factory intake tube before pulling it, and reconnect them to the new tube afterward. Expect to remove a 6mm bolt that holds the cruise control in place on some trucks, and install the L-bracket onto the heat shield with a washer between the bracket and heat shield, as the instructions require. Finish by confirming every clamp and connection is tight before starting the engine.
