Holy CRAP...don't think I've ever seen a filter that bad. Glad it wasn't the transmission!

 

The dirt isn't the issue, how do you guys manage to mangle the air filter or did you do that on removal?

 

It was so dirty/clogged that it collapsed on itself under the suction from the engine, almost completely blocking airflow and causing the reduced power issue.

 

Definitely cheaper than a fuel pump!, and easier too!

Good find!

 

wow. interesting that it collapsed that way. Makes sense.
Did a clean filter resolve the issue?

 

Yes. 100%. The reason I was not able to respond sooner was because as soon as I found the issue, I dropped in a new filter, test drove, and then packed up and headed north for the weekend. I have about 500 miles on it since the filter change, a trip up Mt. Washington Auto Road (big ascent), and lots of off-roading. Everything is good!

I'm very happy for a $20 fix and even happier for a quick fix. I have a trip every weekend for the next month. The backup truck isn't nearly as capable or equipped.

 

Awesome. I bet you were relieved it wasn't the transmission.

 

I had this happen on a v10 E450 in a heavy rain storm last summer. The E450 uses the same filter as the v10 Ex but with a different (more direct) routing for the intake. Because of this I was hoping the Ex would not be susceptible to this problem...guess not.

 

I thought there was a hole in the side of the filter housing to prevent that.

 

Your MAF and throttle body will need cleaning if you suddenly find yourself getting 6 mpg after the new filter goes in. Go through a puddle to boot? The moisture/dirt/suction will collapse the filter.

 

If that happened in a short 3 weeks, it may be worth keeping a spare with you on your trips. With how and where you use the vehicle, it might make sense?