What Does It Mean to Delete a 2013-2017 6.7L Cummins?
Deleting a 2013-2017 6.7L Cummins diesel means removing or disabling its factory emissions-control equipment (DPF, SCR/DEF, EGR, etc.) and reprogramming the ECU. Deleting frees up exhaust flow and intake efficiency, typically boosting horsepower and torque and even improving fuel economy because the engine “breathes” more freely. It also eliminates DPF regen cycles, reducing maintenance downtime and DPF-clog issues. However, there are serious drawbacks: deleting is federally illegal on public roads under the Clean Air Act.
A full Cummins delete kit removes the DPF, SCR/DEF system with custom exhaust piping, and removes the EGR, and requires a tuner to recalibrate the engine. This restores horsepower by reducing backpressure, and avoids clogs in the intake and exhaust. To learn more basic info about diesel deleting and tuning, Check Here.
What Parts are Removed in a Complete '13-'17 6.7 Cummins Delete?
A complete 2013-2017 Cummins delete means removing all major emissions components. Typically you will physically remove the DPF and DOC by replacing them with a straight "delete" pipe to allow free exhaust flow, and remove or bypass the SCR/DEF system since no SCR catalyst or DEF injection is needed after deletion. The EGR system, like valve, cooler, and plumbing is either taken off or blocked with plates. Most importantly, the ECU must be reflashed with a delete tune to turn off the emissions sensors and reoptimize fuel maps.
Not all parts always need full removal. Some owners keep parts in place but disable them in software. For example, you could install an EGR block plate but leave the valve stock, then use the tune to shut off EGR flow. In contrast, the DPF and SCR are usually taken out because they clog and cannot simply sit idle. Many kits also include a crankcase ventilation (CCV) reroute and optional “Switch-on-the-Fly” (SOTF) to re-enable the system if needed.
Removing the DPF/DPF and EGR does often improve reliability, since soot and oil no longer recirculate into the intake, and there are no more regen cycles or turbo stress from backpressure. For long-term durability on the 6.7L, almost all tuners recommend at least an EGR delete, CCV reroute, and DPF delete to avoid the common soot and clogging problems.
Proper Sequence for a 6.7 Cummins Delete
Timing the steps correctly is important. A typical procedure sequence is (You’ll see the more detailed steps later in this article.):
- Unlock and tune the ECU. This stops the computer from logging errors when sensors vanish and optimizes fuel & air without the DPF and EGR.
- Install the EGR delete kit.
- Install the exhaust delete pipes.
- Add any bypass switch or emulator. For example, install an SOTF harness so you can re-enable EGR for servicing, or a DEF emulator to trick gauges.
- Verify and test. After all hardware is off, perform a run-in and monitor gauges.
In some cases, a few steps can be swapped (some install piping then tune again), but always ensure the ECM is programmed at each stage so the truck runs properly.
In short: tune → remove EGR → remove DPF/SCR → final tune check.
Step-by-Step: How to Tune & Delete a 2013–2017 6.7L Cummins
Engine Tuning
Tuning is mandatory with a delete. The injectors and boost need new timing because the exhaust and airflow characteristics have changed. A delete tune also raises fuel limits to avoid black smoke and controls Exhaust Gas Temperature (EGT) to safe levels. Fail to do so you can have serious problems like knocking, overheating, and even loss of power”.
For tools, many owners use handheld or plug-in programmers. One popular choice is the Mini Maxx V2 tuner. It’s a compact device known for Cummins deletes. Diesel owners like it for its high-tech functions and ease of use. It can disable DPF/EGR monitors and also show gauges. Other options include EFILive, Bully Dog, or ATS, which offer bench tunes or downloadable cal files. In all cases, make sure the tune is specifically for a 6.7L Cummins off-road delete.
Removing DPF, DOC, SCR/DEF
To delete the exhaust system, the stock catalytic converter and particulate filter are removed out. You install 4-inch or 5-inch stainless delete pipes in their place. The DOC (diesel oxidation catalyst) is usually integrated and comes out with the DPF. The SCR with its DEF injector and tank is eliminated by plugging the DEF line or using a dummy injector to disable the system. Most delete tuners will turn off the DEF pump signals, so no actual fluid injection is needed.
Sensors like DPF pressure, NOx sensors must be removed or disabled, often with a plug or SOTF switch.
Important: always use high-temperature silicone hoses at all joints and ensure no exhaust leaks.
Removing EGR Components
A EGR delete kit will take off the EGR valve, cooler, and related pipes. On the 6.7 Cummins, you typically install machined block-off plates on the intake manifold and remove the cooler from the oil cooler area. Some installations involve replacing the up-pipe to reroute exhaust around the EGR port. The goal is to have zero exhaust flow through the EGR path. MotorTrend explains that an EGR delete "requires blocking plates on the easiest end and new exhaust up-pipes on the more difficult side".
After the hardware is removed, the tune must disable the EGR logic. If you remove EGR hardware without a tune, the ECU will detect no flow and go into limp mode. So again: tune and EGR delete go hand-in-hand.
DIY vs. Professional Installation
A 6.7 Cummins delete can be a DIY project for an experienced mechanic, but it’s not trivial. DIYers should already have engine mechanical skills, welding tools, and a tuner. If you attempt it yourself, your main costs will be the kit parts and time. In this case, the expense is primarily the delete kit plus any additional clamps or flanges.
You can purchase a full 2013-2017 Cummins delete kit from retailers. For example, Tuner Depot and EngineGo both sell all-in-one Cummins kits. A typical kit includes 4" or 5" stainless pipes, EGR block-off kit, and a tuner or tune files. Kits range widely in price: bundled solutions (pipes + tuner) are on the order of $1,500–2,500. Buying parts a la carte (downpipe, up-pipe, block plates, and tuner) will add up to a similar ballpark.
If you choose a shop or a mechanic, expect to pay labor on top of parts. Typical shop labor might be $100–150/hour. A delete installation can take 4–8 hours. So in a shop, you might pay an extra $500–1,200 for labor. However, a professional installation reduces the risk of mistakes (exhaust leaks, bad tune, vacuum issues), and some shops warranty their work.
DIY Pros: You save on labor, learn how everything works, and only pay for parts and tools.
DIY Cons: It requires time (possibly 1-2 weekends of work), correct tools, and confidence. Mistakes can damage the engine or cause unsafe conditions.
Who should DIY? If you’re a seasoned wrench or builder familiar with diesels, especially if you’ve done EGR deletes or aftermarket exhaust before, DIY can work and save money.
Professional Pros: Experienced mechanics can install it faster and may catch issues. Often shops can do the ECU flash on-site too.
Professional Cons: Labor costs add up, and you still void your warranty.
Who should get a shop? If you lack welding skills, proper lifts/jacks, or any doubt, hire a shop. A bad installation can cost far more than the labor fee.
Legal Alternatives for Performance Gains
Before deleting, remember on-road deletion is a violation of federal law. It's only permitted for off-road or racing vehicles. If you live in a state with emissions inspections (like California), driving a deleted truck can lead to fines or being ordered to reinstall the stock parts.
If you want power and reliability legally, consider these alternatives:
- Aftermarket Tuning (Stage 1): Many tuners now offer increased power without hardware deletes. A "Stage 1" tune recalibrates fueling and boost limits but keeps the DPF/EGR intact, raising power modestly (often 20–40 HP) while staying emissions-compliant.
- Cold Air Intake & Intercooler Upgrades: A high-flow air intake or larger intercooler can free up power. This doesn’t remove emissions gear.
- Performance Exhaust (Pre-DPF): You can install a less-restrictive exhaust system up to the DPF (pre-pipe), which gains some efficiency without removing the DPF itself.
- High-Output Fueling: Upgrading the CP3 lift pump or fuel rails/injectors can increase fueling headroom. Combined with a tune, this boosts power while retaining emissions parts.
- EGR Cooler Pipe (ECP): For some models, a legal upgrade is installing an ECP or EGR-less tune that meets authorities' approval. Thought this is rare for Rams, more common in certain Audis.
- Catch Cans and Maintenance: Simple mods like a CCV catch can and regular cleaning of the intake are 100% legal and improve engine life. They won’t add power, but they reduce carbon buildup and maintenance issues.
In short, don't delete if you plan to drive on public roads in regulated areas. For off-road use (private land, racing), these kits are common, but still proceed with caution and proper setup.
FAQ
Q: Is it legal to delete a 6.7L Cummins in the U.S.?
A: No. Removing emissions equipment is a violation of the Clean Air Act. Deletes are only legal for off-road or racing vehicles.
Q: How much horsepower can a full delete gain?
A: A properly tuned full delete can add on the order of 75–150+ horsepower over stock. A DPF delete alone might add ~30–50 HP, with more gains from optimized fueling after EGR/DOC removal. Actual gain depends on the tune and any supporting mods.
Q: Will a delete void my truck’s warranty?
A: Yes. Any tampering with emissions systems on a Cummins immediately voids the emissions and powertrain warranty.
Q: Will my truck pass emissions inspection after a delete?
A: No. A deleted Cummins will fail any emissions check in the U.S. The inspectors will see removed parts or sensor errors, and it will not meet the legally required emissions limits.
Q: What kind of tuner or tool do I need?
A: You need a diesel ECU programmer that supports the '13-'17 6.7L Cummins. Popular choices include EFI Live Autocal bench units, Bully Dog, or hand-held tuners like the H&S Mini Maxx V2. The Mini Maxx V2, for example, is a plug-in delete tuner designed for Cummins and can disable the DPF/EGR systems and offer gauges.
