Pros and Cons of 6.7 Cummins DPF Delete
- Author: SPELAB Mechanical Engineer (focusing on car modification for 10 years)
Explore the advantages and disadvantages of 6.7 Cummins DPF delete. Learn how it impacts performance, fuel economy, legality, and engine health.
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)
Scientists created a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to reduce hazardous emissions out of concern for the environment. The soot and other particles created during the combustion of diesel are stored in the DPF. It is clear that the DPF has a finite capacity, and once it is used up, it must be cleaned or replaced. However, this is typically not the case because the regeneration process burns out soot and other particulates.
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Delete kit
As suggested by the name, this kit bypasses or removes a vehicle's DPF. With a DPF delete kit, there are no restrictions on exhaust emissions, which consequently effects the intake stroke of the engine and allows more fresh air and fuel to enter the cylinder, improving the combustion process, thus, enhancing performance. In other words, DPF delete improves the vehicle's breathing and as a result we observe increase in performance and economy.
The DPF delete pipe and the tuner are the two main components of the DPF deletes kit. The DPF delete pipe replaces the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)and the tuner deals with the software so that the vehicle can perform well without a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF).
Why delete Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)?
DPF delete kits are used with 6.7 Cummins engine for the following three factors
- With DPF delete, a significant increase in power is observed. It is because being a part of the exhaust system it develops a lot of back pressure, which drastically reduces the reliability of turbocharger and restricts the performance of the engine
- Incase of DPF failure it gets extremely heavy on pockets. Atleast $2k, is required when it gets clogged. And, it is capable of blocking if proper care is not taken
- DPF works at the expense of vehicle performance and efficiency
Pros and Cons of 6.7 Cummins Delete
Like everything in the world has a plus and negative, same is the case with DPF delete. It has its own advantages and disadvantages. Following are given the pros and cons of 6.7 Cummins delete
Pros of 6.7 Cummins Delete
- Increased engine performance
Without a DPF, the vehicle's exhaust flow is less constrained, which eventually results in less constrained injection of the air-fuel mixture into the engine. Hence, improved vehicle breathing results from steady airflow. And it goes without saying that performance improves when breathing is better. Thus, we observe better horsepower, torque and throttle response.
- Increased fuel economy
The exhaust flow is smoother with a DPF delete kit, and a smoother exhaust flow results in a better intake stroke. The efficiency of the fuel is improved by correct mixing and smoother flow, because the fuel is burnt efficiently and fully.
- Lower maintenance costs
The accumulation of the soot and other particulate material in DPF can drastically bring down the engine performance as it directly effects the breathing of the engine and is even capable of stopping the engine. A DPF delete takes us away from all such problems and makes maintenance simpler for us.
- Less exhaust back pressure
Being installed in the way of exhaust, it is obvious that DPF will eventually give rise to back pressure and because of this back pressure our engine suffers. And if DPF is completely clogged then this back pressure could even stall our engine. Thus, with a DPF delete we need not to worry about any back pressure.
- Improved turbo performance
The back pressure that is developed because of the presence of DPF in the exhaust way, is also a restriction for the turbo charger. It limits the performance and reliability of the turbo and therefore, when it is deleted, a considerable gain in horsepower and torque is observed.
Cons of 6.7 cummins dpf
- It’s Illegal
The wellbeing of living things, which is ultimately what matters most, is greatly influenced by the environment. Hence, in order to protect the environment, some states have made the DPF mandatory; as a result, deleting an DPF is unlawful in some jurisdictions. Also, when DPF is removed, the car will not pass an emission test.
- Contributing to air pollution and fails emission test
Bypassing an DPF system will definitely give rise to increase in environment harming nitrogen oxide emissions. It will obviously fail all emission tests.
- Engine losses/ malfunctioning
ECU being the brain of the vehicle is responsible for running the engine and therefore, plays a main role in adjusting different parameters. If the vehicle is not tuned properly after installing the delete kit, it will malfunction and you can have serious problems like overheating, knocking and loss of power.
- Voids warranty and reduced resale
Any changes made with the original vehicle in terms of modifying it can void its warranty and people will normally avoid the vehicle which has been tampered with, because for majority of people the company does things at their best and they do not need that much power or performance from a vehicle. Thus, making the selling market limited for you after DPF is installed.
FAQs
Q1: What are the disadvantages of DPF delete?
A1: DPF delete can lead to increased air pollution, potential legal issues, failure to pass emissions tests, and voided warranties.
Q2: Is it bad to delete a 6.7 Cummins?
A2: Deleting a 6.7 Cummins can increase horsepower and fuel efficiency, but it may result in legal issues and environmental harm.
Q3: Is it worth doing a DPF delete?
A3: It depends on your priorities. While it can improve performance, it may cause legal and environmental problems.
Q4: How much HP does a DPF delete add?
A4: A DPF delete can add approximately 30-50 horsepower, depending on other modifications and tuning.
Q5: Does DPF delete damage the engine?
A5: If not done properly, a DPF delete can cause engine issues due to improper tuning and increased exhaust temperatures.
Q6: Does DPF shorten engine life?
A6: DPF systems do not inherently shorten engine life; however, improper maintenance can lead to engine problems.
Q7: What are the legal implications of DPF delete?
A7: DPF delete is illegal in many regions and can result in fines, penalties, and failing emissions tests.
Q8: How does a DPF delete affect fuel economy?
A8: DPF delete can improve fuel economy by reducing exhaust backpressure and improving engine efficiency.
Q9: Can a DPF delete improve towing performance?
A9: Yes, a DPF delete can enhance towing performance by increasing horsepower and torque.
Q10: What maintenance is required after a DPF delete?
A10: Post-DPF delete, regular maintenance of the exhaust system and engine tuning is crucial to avoid issues.
