Introduction – What to Expect When Deleting a 2019 L5P Duramax
How about deleting your 2019 L5P Duramax? You're not alone. Increasingly, Duramax owners are exploring full-delete solutions to boost performance, improve fuel economy, and eliminate common emissions-related issues.
But before diving in, there’s one big question: How much does it cost to delete a 2019 L5P?
The answer depends on the parts you choose, whether you're going the DIY route or hiring a shop, and the tuning options you select. On average, expect to spend between $1,800 and $4,500 for a complete setup, including the L5P delete kit, tuning, and installation.
This guide will break everything down, from the components you’ll need to delete to the cost range of each, as well as the benefits, risks, and real-world advice on selecting the best L5P delete kit for your truck.
Whether you're just curious or ready to upgrade, this article is your complete roadmap to a successful delete for your 2019 L5P.
What Does It Mean to Delete a 2019 L5P Duramax?
A Quick Breakdown of Emissions Delete
When we refer to “deleting” a 2019 L5P Duramax, we mean removing or bypassing the factory-installed emissions control components. These typically include:
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DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter)
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EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) system
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SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction), aka DEF system
By installing a complete L5P delete kit, you're eliminating the systems that often cause restrictions, soot buildup, regen cycles, and expensive maintenance issues over time.
What’s in an L5P Delete Kit?
A typical L5P Duramax delete kit includes:
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EGR delete kit: Blocks off or replaces the EGR valve and cooler.
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DPF delete pipe: Removes the restrictive diesel particulate filter and catalytic converter.
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DEF tank bypass (if applicable): Eliminates the need for DEF fluid and tank sensors.
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Custom tuning device: Often EFI Live, EZ-Lynk, or MM3, used to disable DTCs and regen cycles while optimizing engine performance.
Not all kits are created equal — quality, material, and compatibility matter. That’s why choosing the best L5P delete kit for your 2019 Duramax is key to long-term reliability.
Complete Cost Breakdown for a 2019 L5P Delete

So, how much should you expect to spend? The total cost of deleting your 2019 L5P Duramax depends on your setup — whether you're assembling parts yourself or opting for a full L5P delete kit with tuning and installation included.
Let’s break it down:
EGR Delete Kit Cost
A quality L5P EGR delete kit typically ranges from $200 to $400. This includes block-off plates, coolant reroute hoses, and sometimes upgraded gaskets.
You’ll find cheaper options on eBay or overseas, but we don’t recommend going that route unless you're okay with questionable fitment or material quality.
DPF & SCR Delete Pipe Cost
The DPF delete pipe section usually runs $300 to $700, depending on:
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Material (aluminized vs. stainless steel)
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Whether it's a single-piece or modular setup
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Brand (e.g., SPETUNER, Flo-Pro, PPE, etc.)
Many full L5P delete kits bundle this in with other components to simplify installation.
Tuning Device & Software Cost
Custom tuning is non-negotiable in a delete setup. Expect to spend $900 to $1,800, depending on:
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Device (EFI Live Autocal V3, EZ Lynk AutoAgent 3, MM3)
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Number of tune files (tow, race, economy, etc.)
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Tuner reputation (like Proven Diesel, DuramaxTuner, etc.)
If your ECM needs unlocking (common with 2017–2019 L5P), that’s another $300–$500, depending on your tuner.
Labor (Optional)
If you’re not doing it yourself, labor costs at a shop can range from $500 to $1,200, depending on the region and the complexity of the work. Most shops quote about 6–8 hours of labor for a full delete.
💰 Total Estimated Cost Summary
Component | Price Range |
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EGR Delete Kit | $200–$400 |
DPF/SCR Delete Pipe | $300–$700 |
Tuning & ECM Unlock | $900–$1,800+ |
Installation Labor | $500–$1,200 |
Total Estimate | $1,800–$4,500+ |
Want to skip the guesswork? Consider a full 2019 L5P delete kit from a trusted source — some bundles include everything you need, plus preloaded tunes and better customer support.
Legal and Warranty Considerations
Deleting your L5P might sound like the perfect performance upgrade — and in many ways, it is. But you should be fully aware of the legal and warranty consequences before making a move.
Is It Legal to Delete a 2019 L5P Duramax?
In most U.S. states and Canadian provinces, removing emissions equipment that was factory-installed is not legal for road-use vehicles. The Clean Air Act prohibits tampering with or removing DPF, EGR, and SCR systems on diesel trucks intended for public roads.
Some states — especially California, New York, and others with CARB regulations — have stricter enforcement and heavy fines for illegal modifications.
That said, delete kits are often marketed as "off-road use only", which is the legal gray area most manufacturers operate within. If you use your truck for racing, off-road, or agricultural work on private land, deletes may be justifiable under local exemptions.
Will a Delete Void My Warranty?
Yes — 100%.
Once you install an L5P delete kit and apply custom tuning, your powertrain warranty is voided. Even if a failure isn't directly tied to the delete, dealerships have the right to deny coverage if the system has been modified.
Some tuners offer "stealth mode" or ECM reset options, but these are not guaranteed and still leave detectable traces.
What’s the Risk Worth to You?
If you're out of warranty and tired of frequent regens, clogged EGRs, or $3,000 DPF replacements, a delete can save you long-term headaches. But if you're under warranty or in a strict emissions area, think twice or keep your factory parts for a possible revert.
Performance and Economic Benefits of Deleting a 2019 L5P Duramax

Let’s be honest — most people don’t delete their L5P to avoid check engine lights. Performance and savings are the big motivators, and the difference is often night and day.
Improved Horsepower and Torque
With emissions restrictions removed and tuning applied, a deleted 2019 L5P can see gains of 80–150 horsepower and 150–300 lb-ft of torque, depending on your setup and tuner.
That means quicker throttle response, stronger towing capability, and a more responsive feel across all RPMs.
You’ll be using the full potential of that 6.6L Duramax.
Better Fuel Economy
Regeneration cycles, EGR flow, and DEF injection all eat into your MPG. After a delete and tune, many owners report fuel mileage gains of 2–5 MPG, especially under towing or highway conditions.
That adds up fast if you’re hauling for a living or clocking long road miles.
Lower Long-Term Maintenance Costs
Once your L5P EGR delete kit and DPF delete pipe are installed, you’re eliminating some of the most failure-prone parts on the truck. No more:
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DEF refills
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Clogged DPFs
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Limp modes during failed regens
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Cracked EGR coolers
Less downtime. Less frustration. Fewer unexpected shop bills.
Choosing the Right Delete Kit for Your 2019 L5P Duramax
Not all L5P delete kits are created equal, and selecting the wrong one can result in poor fitment, engine codes, or even long-term damage. Here’s what to look for when deciding which setup is right for your truck.
Full Kit vs. Piecemeal Approach
If you're new to diesel deletes, we recommend going with a complete L5P Duramax delete kit. These usually include:
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EGR delete kit
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DPF/SCR delete pipe
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Tuned ECM or tuning device
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Hardware and clamps
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Instructions or tuner support
Buying components separately might save money upfront, but mismatched parts can cause tuning conflicts or fitment headaches, especially on the 2019 L5P, which has stricter ECM protocols than earlier models.
Material and Build Quality
Look for kits made from 409 or 304 stainless steel. Avoid using aluminized steel on exhaust components if you live in a salty or wet climate.
For the EGR delete, billet aluminum blocks and reinforced coolant reroute hoses ensure better durability and fewer leaks.
Reliable brands in the market include:
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SPETUNER (known for complete plug-and-play kits for 2019 L5P)
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Flo~Pro
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P1 Race Parts
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PPEI (tuning only)
Tuning Compatibility
Ensure the delete kit is compatible with your tuner (e.g., EFI Live, EZ Lynk). Some sellers bundle tunes, while others require a separate purchase — confirm you’re getting exactly what you need.
You’ll also want to ask if your ECM needs to be unlocked (familiar with 2017–2019 models) and whether that’s included in the price.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Deleting a 2019 L5P Duramax isn’t overly complex, but it does require mechanical confidence, the right tools, and a complete L5P delete kit. Here’s a simplified overview of the process to help you understand what’s involved.
⚠️ For full procedures with photos, torque specs, and expert tips, check our official guides at the end of this section.
Step 1 – Disconnect Battery & Prep the Workspace
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Always begin by disconnecting the batteries. Safety first.
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Allow the truck to cool fully, especially the exhaust system.
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If needed, lift the vehicle to access the DPF and SCR components.
Step 2 – Remove the Factory DPF, SCR & DEF System
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Unbolt the stock downpipe and exhaust system from the turbo back.
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Disconnect DEF lines and sensors carefully (keep or label them if you want to revert).
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Install your new DPF delete pipe, aligning it properly and securing it with new clamps and hangers.
👉 Need help? Follow our detailed DPF downpipe removal and installation tutorial:
🔧 L5P 6.6 Duramax DPF Downpipe Install Guide ›
Step 3 – Install the EGR Delete Kit
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Remove the EGR valve and cooler.
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Install your L5P EGR delete kit block-off plates and coolant bypass lines.
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Take your time here — misalignment can lead to coolant leaks or trigger the check engine light.
👉 We’ve written a detailed walkthrough for this process as well:
🔧 EGR Delete Install for Duramax L5P ›
Step 4 – Install the CCV Reroute Kit (Optional, But Recommended)
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Redirect the crankcase ventilation line to prevent oil vapor from recirculating into your intake.
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Especially helpful for tuned or high-mileage trucks.
👉 Full how-to available here:
🔧 L5P CCV Reroute Delete Kit Installation ›
Step 5 – Flash Custom Tuning
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Connect your EFI Live, EZ Lynk, or MM3 device to the OBD-II port.
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Flash your delete tune, ensuring it disables all relevant emissions functions (DPF, EGR, SCR, etc.).
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If your 2019 L5P requires an ECM unlock, ensure it’s completed before flashing.
Step 6 – Final Checks
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Double-check every clamp, fitting, and sensor connection.
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Reconnect the batteries, start the engine, and let it idle.
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Watch for leaks or warning lights — and listen for smoother throttle response.
Once everything is dialed in, you’ll notice instant performance and drivability gains.
Final Thoughts – Is Deleting Your 2019 L5P Duramax Worth It?
If you're looking for more power, fewer breakdowns, and long-term cost savings, deleting your 2019 L5P Duramax is one of the most effective upgrades you can make, provided you understand the tradeoffs.
A full L5P delete kit gives you:
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Improved horsepower and torque
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Better fuel economy
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Elimination of EGR/DPF/DEF headaches
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A cleaner, more responsive truck
But on the flip side, you’re giving up your factory warranty and risking legal consequences if the truck is driven on public roads. That’s why it’s important to weigh your goals — and make sure the delete is done right the first time.
At SPETUNER, we offer comprehensive, road-tested delete solutions specifically designed for the 2019 L5P, featuring top-tier tuning and installation support for off-road use. Whether you're doing it yourself or working with a shop, our kits are built for power, durability, and reliability.
If you're ready to stop dealing with regens and unlock your Duramax's full potential, we're here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions about the 2019 L5P Delete Kit
How much does it cost to delete an L5P?
The total cost to delete an L5P Duramax typically ranges between $1,800 and $4,500. This includes the delete kit, tuning, and optional labor if you're not doing it yourself.
How much does a full DPF delete cost?
A full DPF delete setup (including the DPF delete pipe and tuning) usually costs around $1,000 to $2,000 depending on brand and tuning options. It’s often part of a complete L5P delete kit.
How much does it cost to tune and delete a 2019 Duramax?
Expect to spend $2,500 to $4,000+ for a full tune and delete on a 2019 Duramax L5P. This includes the tuner device, custom tunes, emissions delete hardware, and optional ECM unlock.
How long does it take to delete a 2019 L5P?
DIY installation of a full L5P delete kit takes around 6–10 hours depending on your tools and experience. A professional shop can typically complete the job in one workday.
Is it legal to delete emissions on my L5P Duramax?
No — deleting emissions components like the DPF, EGR, and DEF systems is illegal for on-road use under federal law. Delete kits are intended for off-road or competition use only.
Will deleting my L5P void the warranty?
Yes. Installing an L5P delete kit and flashing custom tunes will void your powertrain warranty. It may also affect future dealership service and diagnostics.
What comes in a complete 2019 L5P delete kit?
A full kit typically includes a DPF delete pipe, EGR delete kit, tuner device with delete files, and required clamps or block-off plates. Some bundles also include a CCV reroute kit.
Can I install a delete kit myself?
Yes, many DIYers install delete kits at home with basic tools and a garage. However, you’ll need time, patience, and a reliable tuning solution. Always follow detailed install guides.
What’s the best L5P delete kit for a 2019 Duramax?
Popular options include SPETUNER, Flo~Pro, and P1 Race Parts. SPETUNER kits are favored for their fitment, tuning support, and complete packaging for 2019 models.
Will a deleted L5P get better fuel economy?
Yes. Most owners report a 2–5 MPG improvement after deleting emissions systems and flashing optimized tunes. Gains vary depending on driving habits and tune files.