How to Delete EGR on 6.7 Cummins: Complete Installation Guide

Deleting the EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) system from your 6.7 Cummins engine can provide significant performance benefits, such as improved power and reduced engine wear. However, it's important to understand the step-by-step process and potential implications before making this modification. In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know, from preparation to installation and testing, ensuring a successful EGR delete on your Cummins engine.

Why Delete the EGR System on Your 6.7 Cummins?

Before diving into the installation process, let’s first understand why many Cummins owners choose to delete the EGR system. The EGR system was designed to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by recirculating exhaust gases back into the engine. While this helps to meet environmental regulations, it can also lead to some undesirable effects on your engine’s performance.

Benefits of Deleting the EGR

1. Improved Engine Performance: Deleting the EGR can improve airflow into the engine, resulting in better combustion efficiency. This leads to an increase in horsepower and torque, making your truck more responsive and powerful.

2. Reduced Engine Wear: EGR systems contribute to carbon buildup in the intake system and combustion chamber. By removing the EGR, you eliminate the possibility of carbon accumulation, which can lead to engine knocking, reduced power, and premature wear.

3. Enhanced Fuel Efficiency: By removing exhaust gases from the intake air, your engine operates with more fresh oxygen, potentially improving fuel efficiency.

Before You Begin: Tools and Equipment Needed

Successfully deleting the EGR system on your 6.7 Cummins requires specific tools and an EGR delete kit. Below, we’ve outlined what you will need before starting the installation.

6.7L Cummins EGR Delete Kit

The 6.7L Cummins EGR delete kit is essential for the process. These kits typically include block-off plates, gaskets, hardware, and necessary sensors. Be sure to choose a high-quality kit to avoid any compatibility issues with your engine. Quality kits often come with detailed instructions and all the necessary parts for both EGR valve and cooler deletion. For 2013-2018 6.7L Cummins models, check out the 2013-2018 6.7L Cummins EGR delete kit, or if you own a 2010-2014 model, find the 2010-2014 6.7L Cummins EGR delete kit designed for your engine.

Tools Required

• Wrenches and Sockets: You'll need an array of wrenches and sockets, particularly 8mm, 10mm, 15mm, and 14mm sizes, to remove bolts and clamps.

• Deep Socket: For loosening the EGR pipe clamps.

• Thread Sealant: To ensure that the coolant ports are sealed properly during installation.

• Coolant and Hose Clamps: For re-connecting the cooling system and ensuring no leaks after installation.

Step-by-Step EGR Deletion Process

Now that you have all the tools and equipment, it’s time to get into the detailed, step-by-step process of deleting the EGR system on your 6.7 Cummins. Follow these instructions carefully to ensure a smooth and successful deletion.

Step 1: Preparing the Vehicle

The first stage of the EGR delete process is preparation. This ensures safety and allows you to access all the necessary components without obstruction.

1. Disconnect the Batteries: Start by disconnecting the batteries to avoid any electrical mishaps during the installation process.

2. Drain the Engine Coolant: Before removing any parts related to the cooling system, make sure to drain the engine coolant to prevent spills.

3. Remove the Plastic Engine Cover: Use an 8mm socket to remove the plastic cover and expose the EGR system. Also, remove any necessary parts such as the dipstick or brackets for easier access.

Step 2: Removing the EGR Valve and Related Components

Once the vehicle is prepared, the next task is to remove the EGR valve and the components attached to it. This part requires careful handling to avoid damaging the surrounding parts.

1. Loosen the Clamps on the EGR Pipe: Use a deep socket to loosen the clamps on the EGR pipe. Remove the 10mm bolts securing the pipe and carefully take it off.

2. Remove the EGR Valve: After removing the pipes, unscrew the 10mm bolts holding the EGR valve in place. Disconnect the valve’s wiring and carefully remove it.

3. Throttle Valve Removal: The throttle valve is located just under the intake elbow. Disconnect the throttle body and install it with a new throttle valve pipe, ensuring the system remains unplugged to avoid the valve from permanently closing.

Step 3: Installing the EGR Delete Block-Off Plates

With the EGR valve removed, the next step is to install the block-off plates to seal off the EGR ports and prevent exhaust gases from re-entering the engine.

1. Install the Block-Off Plate: Use the gaskets provided with the delete kit to install the block-off plates where the EGR valve was previously attached. Ensure a tight seal to avoid any leaks.

2. Seal the Coolant Ports: For EGR cooler deletion, install the adapter on the coolant standpipe and seal it with a retaining clamp. Use thread sealant to prevent coolant leaks.

Step 4: Removing the EGR Cooler (If Applicable)

If you are removing the EGR cooler, this step involves several detailed actions, including disassembling parts of the cooling system and exhaust manifold.

1. Remove the Heat Shields: Use the appropriate wrenches to remove the heat shields and expose the EGR cooler.

2. Disconnect the Coolant Lines: Carefully disconnect the coolant lines, ensuring you don’t spill any fluid.

3. Remove the EGR Cooler: After disconnecting all lines, remove the EGR cooler. It’s important to keep the cooler level to avoid spilling coolant inside the system.

Step 5: Reinstalling Components and Testing

With the EGR delete complete, now it’s time to reassemble the vehicle and test the system to ensure everything works properly.

1. Reconnect the Coolant System: Use the supplied hose and clamps to reconnect the coolant ports, ensuring that there are no leaks.

2. Refill the Coolant: Top off the coolant to factory specifications, and monitor the system for any loss of coolant during the testing phase.

3. Test the Engine: Start the engine and allow it to run until the coolant circulates. Carefully inspect for any leaks around the EGR delete areas.

Once you have confirmed that everything is functioning correctly, re-install the plastic engine cover.

ECU Tuning After EGR Deletion

It’s important to note that simply removing the EGR hardware is not enough. You will also need to tune the ECU (Engine Control Unit) to ensure your 6.7 Cummins operates smoothly after the EGR delete.

When you delete the EGR system, the engine no longer expects to receive exhaust gases into the intake air. The ECU needs to be reprogrammed to adjust for this change, as well as to eliminate any trouble codes that may be generated due to the absence of the EGR system.

You can either use a custom tuning solution or a specific EGR delete tuner to reprogram the ECU. The process generally involves connecting the tuner to the vehicle’s OBD-II port and uploading a custom tune that disables the EGR system and optimizes the engine’s performance.

Legal Considerations of EGR Deletion

One of the most important things to consider before deleting the EGR system is the legal ramifications. In many areas, removing emissions-related components can lead to fines or legal issues.

Certain states, such as California, have very strict emissions regulations. Deleting the EGR system may cause your vehicle to fail the smog check or emission tests, which could make your vehicle illegal to drive in those regions.

If you live in a state that requires emissions testing, it’s crucial to check local laws before proceeding with the EGR delete. Some owners choose to install the EGR system back temporarily before a test to avoid failing the emissions inspection.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During EGR Deletion

EGR deletion can be a complex process, and it’s important to avoid certain common mistakes.

• Skipping ECU Reprogramming: Neglecting to tune the ECU can lead to engine performance issues, including power loss and engine codes.
• Improper Installation: If the block-off plates or EGR cooler aren’t installed correctly, it could result in leaks, overheating, or engine damage.
• Ignoring Post-Installation Testing: Always test the engine after installation to ensure everything is running smoothly.

Conclusion

Deleting the EGR system from your 6.7 Cummins engine can unlock better performance, reduce maintenance costs, and enhance the engine’s longevity by preventing carbon buildup. The process involves several steps, from preparing your vehicle to removing components and installing the delete kit, followed by testing and ensuring proper ECU tuning.

However, before making this modification, always consider the legal requirements in your region, as well as the long-term effects on your vehicle’s warranty and emissions compliance. If done correctly, the benefits of EGR deletion are significant, and you’ll enjoy a smoother, more powerful ride with fewer engine issues.

Whether you are a seasoned mechanic or a DIY enthusiast, taking the time to carefully follow the steps will help ensure a successful EGR delete on your 6.7 Cummins engine.