The Ford F81Z-9N424-BA is the OE air intake heater element for a 1999.5–2003 7.3 Powerstroke. It threads into the intake spider and heats the charge air on a cold start.

When it fails, the truck can set a check engine light, crank longer in cold weather, or blow the heater circuit. This is the element itself, not the relay and not the block heater. It is a direct replacement and comes out with a 1-inch socket. The Ford part matches the factory threads, so it seals the spider without adapters.

It fits late-1999.5 through 2003 Super Duty 7.3 trucks. Early 1999 and OBS trucks do not use this element.

Fitment

• 1999.5–2003 Ford 7.3L Powerstroke
• F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550
• Intake spider / plenum
• Genuine Ford F81Z-9N424-BA
• Element only
• Does not fit early 1999

Replace it if the element is open or the light is on for the intake heater. A delete plug is a different part, and it will not warm the air on a cold morning.