TL;DR – Intake Horn Compatibility:
6.7 Cummins intake horns are not interchangeable across all model years. Sensor locations, emissions systems, and engine bay layouts change between generations. Installing the wrong intake horn can cause fitment issues, sensor errors, or fuel line interference. Always choose an intake horn designed for your specific model year.
"In my 10+ years engineering diesel airflow systems, I’ve installed and dyno-tested intake horns on dozens of 6.7 Cummins trucks—from stock daily tow rigs to 800HP sled pullers. I've seen exactly what happens when you force the wrong part onto the wrong year model, and trust me, it’s a headache you want to avoid." — John Lee
When you pop the hood of a Ram 2500 or 3500, the 6.7L Cummins engine looks like a beast. But if you’ve been browsing forums or shopping for performance parts, you’ve probably noticed something confusing: Not all 6.7L parts are created equal.
One of the most common upgrades for the Cummins is the Intake Horn (or Intake Elbow). It replaces the restrictive stock unit to increase airflow, lower EGTs, and improve throttle response.
However, simply searching for "6.7 Cummins Intake Horn" can lead to an installation nightmare. While the engine block remains largely similar, the plumbing, sensor locations, and bracketry have changed significantly over the years.
In this guide, we’ll break down the specific fitment pitfalls for the three main generations: 2007.5–2012, 2013–2018, and 2019+. Read this before you hit "Add to Cart."
At a Glance: The Cheat Sheet
| Feature | 2007.5 - 2012 (Early) | 2013 - 2018 (DEF Era) | 2019 - Present (5th Gen) |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAP Sensor | On the Horn | Usually on Manifold Plate | Usually on Manifold Plate |
| Dipstick Bracket | Bolts to Horn | Needs Relocation | Different Mount Point |
| Major Pitfall | Missing MAP sensor port | Fuel Line #1 Interference | Brake Reservoir Clearance |
1. The Early Years: 2007.5 – 2012 (Pre-DEF)
These trucks are the "Early 4th Gen" (and late 3rd Gen 6.7s). While they are simpler than the newer trucks, they have specific requirements that many "universal" kits ignore.
The Critical Difference: MAP Sensor Location
If you are searching for the Cummins intake manifold pressure sensor location, the answer depends entirely on your model year. This is the #1 reason owners end up with the wrong part.
- On 2007.5 - 2012 Models: The MAP sensor is located directly on the back of the Intake Horn (the elbow). It is held in by a T15 Torx screw.
- On 2013+ Models: Ram moved this sensor. It is typically found on the Intake Manifold Plate (the flat grid heater plate) underneath the horn, NOT on the horn itself.
Because the sensor is physically mounted to the horn on 07.5-12 trucks, you cannot use a generic or 2013+ intake horn. You must ensure your new kit has the specific machined port and screw boss to accept this sensor. If you buy the wrong one, you'll have a sensor dangling by its wires with nowhere to plug it in.
Pro Tip: When swapping this sensor, you'll likely notice it's caked in soot from the EGR system. This restriction kills fuel economy. Installing a High-Flow Intake Horn helps improve air velocity and reduces future buildup. Read more about solving the carbon deposit problem
The Pitfall: The Dipstick Bracket
Your engine oil dipstick tube is secured by one of the intake horn bolts.
- The Risk: Aftermarket horns have larger tubes (3.5" or 4"). The factory dipstick bracket will not line up with the new bolt location. If you leave it unsecured, engine vibration can crack the dipstick tube at the base, causing an oil leak.
- The Fix: Look for a kit that includes a Dipstick Relocation Bracket. This is a small metal extension that bridges the gap between the new horn and the dipstick.
2. The Middle Years: 2013 – 2018 (The DEF Era)
In 2013, Ram introduced the DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) system and dual radiators. The engine bay got crowded, and the plumbing changed.
🚨 The Pitfall: Fuel Line #1 Interference (CRITICAL)
This is the most dangerous issue. On 2013-2018 models, the high-pressure fuel line feeding Cylinder #1 runs dangerously close to the bottom of the intake horn.
The Risk: When you install a larger diameter (3.5"+) aftermarket horn, the bottom of the horn can rub against the metal fuel line. Over time, engine vibration will cause the horn to saw through the fuel line. This can lead to a high-pressure diesel spray and a potential engine fire.
"I can’t count how many times I’ve seen DIYers trying to save a few bucks by forcing a generic horn onto a 2014 or 2015 Ram. They usually end up in the shop a month later with a dangerous diesel leak because the vibration sawed right through the #1 fuel line." — John
The Fix:
- Do not force it.
- Buy a high-quality horn that has a "flat spot" or indentation machined on the bottom to clear the line.
- Use a specific bracket or spacer provided in quality kits to gently relocate the line.
The Pitfall: The "Extra" Hole
Since the MAP sensor on these trucks is often located on the intake plenum (the plate below the horn) rather than the horn itself, a "universal" horn might have a sensor hole you don't need.
- The Fix: Ensure your kit comes with an NPT Plug to block off the unused sensor port.
3. The Modern Era: 2019 – Present (5th Gen)
If you have a 2019 or newer Ram, stop. Do not try to install a 2018 intake horn on your truck. Even though it is still a "6.7 Cummins," the cylinder head and engine bay layout are different.
The Pitfall: Brake Reservoir Clearance
Ram redesigned the firewall and braking system for the 5th Gen. The brake fluid reservoir is larger and sits closer to the engine.
"Trust me, the clearance on the 5th Gens is unforgiving. I've personally tried to shoehorn a 4th Gen intake horn onto a 2020 Ram just to see if it could be done—it physically hits the brake reservoir before the flange can even seal. Don't waste your time trying to make it fit."
- The Risk: An intake horn designed for a 4th Gen truck will physically hit the brake reservoir or the firewall insulation before it sits flush on the manifold.
- The Fix: You need a 5th Gen Specific Kit. These horns have a tighter bend radius and a different angle to clear the brake master cylinder assembly.
While You're In There: The Grid Heater
Regardless of which year you own (but especially for 2007.5–2018 models), removing the intake horn exposes the Factory Grid Heater.
This is the perfect time to inspect the infamous "Grid Heater Bolt." On high-mileage trucks, the nut securing the heater element can wiggle loose and fall into the #6 cylinder, causing catastrophic engine failure.
Many owners choose to perform a Grid Heater Delete while upgrading the intake horn.
Shop Grid Heater Delete Kits »
FAQ
Q: Will a 2013–2018 intake horn fit a 2007.5–2012 6.7 Cummins?
A: No. 2007.5–2012 trucks mount the MAP sensor directly on the intake horn. Most 2013–2018 horns lack the required sensor port, making them incompatible without modification.
Q: Where is the MAP sensor located on a 6.7 Cummins?
A: On 2007.5–2012 models, the MAP sensor is mounted on the back of the intake horn. On most 2013+ trucks, it is located on the intake manifold or grid heater plate beneath the horn.
Q: Why is fuel line #1 interference such a big concern on 2013–2018 trucks?
A: The high-pressure fuel line for cylinder #1 runs very close to the intake horn. Larger aftermarket horns can rub against it, potentially wearing through the line and causing a dangerous fuel leak or fire.
Q: Can I reuse my factory dipstick bracket with an aftermarket intake horn?
A: Usually not. Larger-diameter aftermarket horns change the mounting geometry, requiring a dipstick relocation bracket to prevent stress and cracking of the dipstick tube.
Q: Is it safe to run an intake horn with an unused sensor hole?
A: Yes, as long as the unused port is properly sealed with an NPT plug. Leaving it open will cause boost leaks and incorrect sensor readings.
Q: Will a 2018 intake horn fit a 2019+ 5th Gen Ram?
A: No. 5th Gen trucks have different cylinder head geometry and tighter brake reservoir clearance. Using a 4th Gen horn can cause physical interference and improper sealing.
Q: Do intake horns actually improve performance on a stock 6.7 Cummins?
A: Yes. A high-flow intake horn reduces airflow restriction, improves throttle response, and can help lower EGTs, especially on tuned or heavily loaded trucks.
Q: Should I consider a grid heater delete when replacing the intake horn?
A: Yes. Removing the intake horn exposes the grid heater, making it an ideal time to address the known grid heater bolt failure risk, especially on high-mileage 2007.5–2018 trucks.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading your intake horn is one of the best "bang-for-your-buck" mods for the 6.7 Cummins. It cleans up the engine bay and lets that turbo breathe. But as we've seen, Year Matters.
- 2007.5-12: Watch the MAP sensor.
- 2013-18: Watch the Fuel Line #1.
- 2019+: Watch the Brake Reservoir.
Don't guess on fitment. Select your specific year at checkout to ensure you get the brackets, plugs, and geometry designed for your truck.
Find The Right Intake Horn For Your Ram 2500 3500 »
John Lee
Mechanical Engineer | 10+ Years Experience
John has spent the last decade engineering and testing high-performance automotive components. Specializing in drivetrain durability and thermal management across Powerstroke, Cummins, and Duramax applications, he bridges the gap between OEM limitations and aftermarket performance. His philosophy: "Factory parts are just a starting point."
