Detailed EGR Delete Installation for Duramax L5P Owners

Comprehensive Installation Guide for SPETUNER EGR Delete Kit (2017+ 6.6L Duramax L5P)

Written by Lars, SPETUNER Diesel Modification Specialist

Introduction

Upgrading your 6.6L Duramax L5P with the SPETUNER EGR Valve Cooler Delete Kit is a transformative step toward unlocking better performance and reliability. This guide is designed for DIY enthusiasts who want to take on the installation with confidence. Every step is laid out in detail to ensure a smooth process while highlighting key safety points and tips to optimize your success.

DPF/EGR/DEF Delete 2017-2023 L5P 6.6L Duramax All-in-One Kit

L5P delete kit

$3299.00

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Important Note on Legal Compliance

This l5p egr delete kit is intended for off-road use only. Before proceeding, ensure you understand and comply with the emission laws in your region. Installing this kit on vehicles intended for road use may violate local regulations.

Comparing brands and setups? Start with the best L5P delete kit guide.

Download the L5P EGR Delete Instructions PDF

If you are heading into the garage and need a printable, step-by-step visual guide, we highly recommend keeping our official manual handy. Click the link or image below to save it directly to your phone or computer.

📥 Download the Official SPETUNER L5P EGR Delete Instructions PDF Here

Year Compatibility: 2017-2019 L5P vs. 2016 LML Duramax

This installation guide is specifically written for the L5P engine platform, which means it perfectly covers the 2017, 2018, and 2019 L5P EGR delete instructions. The engine layout, turbo pedestal, and EGR cooler mounting points are identical across these model years.

Note: Are you looking for 2016 Duramax EGR delete instructions? The 2016 Silverado and Sierra HD trucks utilize the older LML Duramax engine. The EGR layout on the LML is completely different from the L5P. If you have a 2016, do not use this guide. Instead, navigate to our Duramax EGR collection to find parts and resources specifically for the LML.

Tools You’ll Need

• Ratchet set (13mm, 15mm, 10mm sockets)
• 1/4" and 1/2" torque wrenches
• Universal joints and extensions
• Flathead screwdriver and pry bar
• Coolant drain pan
• Pliers and hose removal tools

Preparation Checklist:

• Ensure the vehicle is on a stable, level surface.
• Disconnect the battery for safety.
• Have a clean, organized workspace with all tools and parts ready.

Step-by-Step Installation

Part 1: Preparation

Disconnect the Batteries

Start by disconnecting the negative terminals of both batteries. This is a critical safety step to prevent any electrical mishaps.

Remove the Passenger-Side Fender Liner

Use a socket wrench to remove the inner fender liner. This opens up access to key components for the installation process.

Drain the Coolant

Locate the radiator’s drain plug on the lower passenger side. Slowly loosen the plug to let the coolant drain into a pan. Leave the coolant tank cap on to control the flow and minimize splashing.

Part 2: Disassembly

1. Remove the Intake System

• Disconnect and remove the intake pipe and airbox. These components obstruct access to the EGR and related components.

2. Remove the EGR Hot-Side Pipe

• Unscrew the six 13mm bolts holding the hot-side pipe. Remove the heat shield and the pipe connecting the EGR cooler to the Y-bridge.

3. Remove the Turbocharger Intake Horn and PCV Hose

• Using a 13mm universal joint socket and a long extension, remove the two bolts securing the intake horn.
• Gently pry off the PCV hose from the intake horn using a flathead screwdriver.

4. Disconnect and Remove the Y-Bridge

• Detach the wire harness on top of the Y-bridge, including all Christmas tree clips and connectors.
• Loosen the belt tensioner and remove the serpentine belt from the air conditioning (AC) compressor.
• Use a 10mm socket to remove the eight bolts securing the Y-bridge to the intake runners. Carefully remove the bridge, ensuring no debris enters the intake ports. Cover the ports with clean shop rags.

5. Remove the Lower EGR Assembly & Install Block Off Plate

• Detach the short hot-side EGR pipe and associated coolant lines.
• Remove the lower EGR valve using a 13mm socket.
• Immediately install the included L5P EGR block off plate onto the exhaust manifold using two original bolts. Torque this block off plate to 25 ft-lbs to ensure a perfect exhaust seal.

6. Remove the Turbocharger and SCR System

• Disconnect all coolant and oil lines around the turbocharger.
• Remove the four 15mm bolts that secure the turbo to its pedestal, and carefully lift it out.
• Detach the SCR assembly and exhaust pipes connected to the turbo.

Part 3: Installation

1. Install Coolant Lines and Block-Off Plugs

• Replace the factory coolant hardlines with the included 20-inch soft hose. Use the provided clamps to secure the connections.
• Install the billet block-off plugs on any unused coolant ports.

2. Reinstall the Turbocharger and Downpipe

• Install the new pedestal gasket and reattach the turbocharger to the pedestal. Tighten the four mounting bolts to 43 ft-lbs.
• Attach the new downpipe, aligning it with the turbo outlet. Tighten all brackets and clamps to ensure a snug fit.

3. Reinstall the Y-Bridge and Intake Components

• Remove the rags from the intake ports and reinstall the Y-bridge using the original bolts. Torque them to 89 inch-lbs.
• Reconnect the intake horn, PCV hose, and airbox.

4. Finalize Coolant System Connections

• Replace any remaining coolant hoses and refill the radiator with fresh coolant.

Part 4: Testing and Adjustments

Check for Leaks

Start the vehicle and let it idle for a few minutes. Inspect all connections for leaks of coolant or air. Tighten clamps as necessary.

Bleed the Coolant System

Allow the engine to cycle through its heating and cooling phases. Top off the coolant as the system purges air pockets.

Verify Performance

Test the vehicle’s acceleration and monitor turbo responsiveness. Ensure all systems are functioning as expected.

Conclusion

Installing the SPETUNER EGR Valve Cooler Delete Kit is a rewarding upgrade that boosts your Duramax’s performance and reliability. This guide provides a detailed roadmap to help you navigate the process confidently. Should you encounter any issues, SPETUNER’s support team is always ready to assist.

Get ready to enjoy a cleaner, more powerful driving experience!

FAQs About L5P EGR Delete Installation

Lars

Diesel Performance Engineer | 15+ Years EXPERIENCE

Lars has spent over 15 years building and tuning more than 1,000 diesel engines. He specializes in engine durability and high-performance calibrations for Powerstroke, Cummins, and Duramax platforms. At SPEtuner, he cuts through the noise to provide clear, actionable insights on everything from DPF/EGR solutions to custom EFI Live tuning. His goal: solve the $10,000 "Limp Mode" traps and make every truck bulletproof.

"Empower Your Beast: Run Cooler, Pull Harder, Last Longer."