If you own a 6.7 Cummins diesel truck, you want to know: What's the best delete kit for my 6.7 Cummins, and do I need a diesel tuner? The answer is YES.
In this guide, we will show why you must use both a diesel delete kit & tuner for your 6.7 Cummins.
What Is a Delete Kit?
A delete kit is a package that removes or bypasses factory-installed emissions systems. This system includes:
- Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)
- Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR)
- Diesel Exhaust Fluid(DEF)
These systems were made to reduce emissions, but they can also lower fuel efficiency, increase maintenance, and put more stress on the engine. That’s why many diesel truck owners choose diesel delete kits – for more power, less trouble, and a longer-lasting engine.
Read more: What is A Delete Kit? Complete Guide
A full 6.7 Cummins delete kit often includes all these: EGR, DPF, and DEF delete.
What Is a Tuner for 6.7 Cummins?
The diesel tuner is an electronic device that loads custom diesel tuning software into your truck’s ECU (Engine Control Unit). After removing the emission components, like the EGR, DPF, and DEF. It reprograms the truck's ECU. And prevents the truck from entering "limp mode" or triggering error codes.
With the high-performance diesel tuner, like Mini Maxx V2 Tuner, you can do this for your 6.7 Cummins truck:
- Disable emissions systems (EGR, DPF, DEF)
- Prevent limp mode or warning lights
- Optimize performance with tuning levels
- Boost torque and horsepower
- Improve throttle response and fuel efficiency
And here’s the critical part: if you remove emissions parts without adjusting the ECU, your truck will detect missing sensors and throw error codes. That’s why a delete kit without a diesel tuner simply doesn’t work.
Why You Need Both Diesel delete kit and Tuner?
Using both a Delete Kit and a Diesel Tuner together is essential for unlocking the full potential of your 6.7 Cummins. Here’s how it works:
| Scenario | Result |
| Delete Kit Only (No Tuner) | ECU detects missing parts → Check engine lights, limp mode, and performance issues |
| Tuner Only (No Delete Kit) | Gains in power, but emissions components cause blockages and lead to engine issues over time |
| Delete Kit + Diesel Tuner | No faults, maximum power, reduced engine temps, and longer engine life – full performance unlocked |
Delete Kit: Removes the restrictive emissions components (DPF, EGR), allowing your engine to breathe freely and significantly boosting horsepower and torque.
Diesel Tuner: Adjusts your truck’s ECU to function properly without the emissions systems, ensuring the engine runs smoothly and safely, without error codes or limp mode.
Using both together is the only way to unlock your 6.7 Cummins' true performance potential, allowing for trouble-free, high-performance operation.
Benefits of Deleting Your 6.7 Cummins with Both a Delete Kit and Tuner
Here's how each of these upgrades works together to enhance your truck's capabilities:
1. Increased Horsepower and Torque
Delete Kit: By removing the restrictive DPF and EGR systems, your engine can breathe more freely and generate more power.
Tuner: The tuner optimizes fuel delivery and timing, which boosts your engine's overall performance.
Combined Benefit: Together, users experience 100 to 200 HP gains and 200 to 400 lb-ft of torque, making your truck more powerful for towing and daily driving.
2. Improved Fuel Economy
Delete Kit: Removes the need for DPF regeneration cycles, which waste fuel.
Tuner: Fine-tunes the engine for better fuel efficiency, helping you get more miles out of each gallon.
Combined Benefit: Many users see improvements of 3 to 5 MPG, saving you money at the pump over time.
3. Enhanced Engine Reliability
Delete Kit: Reduces the likelihood of common issues like DPF clogging and EGR cooler failures, which can lead to expensive repairs.
Tuner: Ensures the truck’s ECU is properly calibrated, preventing errors and limp mode.
Combined Benefit: With both, your truck will experience lower maintenance costs and a longer engine life.
4. Lower Exhaust Gas Temperatures (EGTs)
Delete Kit: Removes components that can cause excessive heat buildup in the exhaust system.
Tuner: Adjusts engine parameters to help better manage heat and keep temperatures in check.
Combined Benefit: Reduced EGTs lead to improved engine performance and greater longevity.
SPETUNER's Tuner Options
Mini Maxx V1 Delete Tuner
Best for: 2006-2012 6.7L Cummins (also supports older 5.9L)
Key Features:
Full DPF, DEF, and EGR delete support
Shift-on-the-fly (SOTF) tuning capability
Multiple power levels: Stock, Tow (60HP), Street (120HP), Performance (175HP)
20+ live digital gauges for monitoring
Speed limiter adjustment and tire calibration
DTC code reader and clearer
Automatic safety protections based on EGT, boost, and temperatures
What's Included: Mini Maxx V1 Tuner, OBD connection box, HDMI cable, power adapter, suction cup mount, and all tune files preloaded
Mini Maxx V2 Tuner (Latest Model)
Best for: 2007.5-2021 6.7L Cummins
Key Features:
Delete EGR, DPF, and DEF systems
Up to +5 MPG fuel economy improvement
Shift-on-the-fly (partial support)
4 power levels: Stock, Tow, Street, Performance
Speed limiter removal and digital gauges
Pre-loaded race tunes for off-road use
Important Notes:
For 2018+ RAM trucks, requires bypass cable
2019-2021 RAMs limited to 1 power level due to 20PSI cap
Must support original PCM software with part number starting with a number
What's Included: Mini Maxx V2 Tuner, OBD connection box, HDMI cable, power adapter, fuse tap, suction cup mount, off-road race tunes
Step-by-Step: Using Your Tuner After Delete Installation
Step 1: Install the Tuner FIRST (Before Physical Delete)
⚠️ Critical: Always install and flash the tuner with delete tunes BEFORE removing any emissions hardware. This prevents error codes during the physical removal process.
Connect the OBD connection box to your truck's OBD-II port (located under the dashboard)
Connect the tuner to the OBD box using the HDMI cable
Wire the power adapter to a switched 12V fuse in your fuse box
Turn the ignition to ON (do not start the engine)
Step 2: Select and Install Delete Tune
Power on the tuner
Navigate to Menu > Install Download
Select your desired power level (start with Stock or Tow for first-time users)
Follow all on-screen prompts
Do NOT turn off the ignition until the installation is 100% complete
The process typically takes 15-30 minutes
Step 3: Verify Successful Installation
After installation completes, turn off the ignition
Wait 30 seconds, then restart your truck
Check for any warning lights or error codes
Use the tuner's diagnostic function to clear any existing codes
Step 4: Physically Remove Emissions Components
Now that the tuner has reprogrammed your ECU, you can safely:
Remove the DPF and install the delete pipe
Install the EGR delete kit and block-off plates
Disconnect all emissions-related sensors
Step 5: Final Setup and Power Level Selection
For Mini Maxx V1 (with full SOTF)
Use the V1 tuner's menu to enable shift-on-the-fly
Switch between power levels on the fly while driving
Read more: Mini Maxx V1 Tuner Installation Guide for Diesel Trucks
For Mini Maxx V2
Check Mini Maxx V2 menu
2007-2018 models: Can change power levels through Menu > Install Download
2019-2021 models: Limited to single power level due to factory restrictions
Read more: How to Install the mini maxx V2 Tuner on Your Truck?
Considerations Before Installing
While the benefits are clear, it’s important to consider the following points before moving forward with installing a Delete Kit and Tuner:
Legal Implications: In many regions, including states like California, removing emissions systems can be illegal for on-road vehicles. Always ensure you understand the regulations in your area before proceeding.
Warranty Concerns: Modifying your vehicle may void its warranty. Consult your dealership to understand how these modifications may affect your truck’s warranty.
Installation Expertise: Proper installation is crucial to avoid issues and ensure maximum performance. Consider seeking professional help to ensure that the delete kit and tuner are properly installed.
Conclusion
Upgrading your 6.7 Cummins with both a Delete Kit and a Performance Tuner is one of the most effective ways to boost your truck’s performance, fuel efficiency, and overall reliability.
At SPETUNER, we provide high-quality all-in-one delete kits and tuners. Ready to take your 6.7 Cummins to the next level? Explore our products today and experience the difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if you delete DPF without a tuner?
The ECU will detect missing components and trigger error codes, causing your truck to enter "limp mode" which restricts power and drivability. The truck may attempt regeneration cycles without the DPF present, leading to fuel dilution and potential engine damage.
Can you delete a 6.7 Cummins without a tuner?
No. The tuner reprograms the ECU to function without emissions systems. Without a tuner, your truck will throw codes, display check engine lights, and potentially enter limp mode. The delete kit removes physical components, but only the tuner tells your computer these systems are gone.
What is the best delete kit for 6.7 Cummins？
Popular options include full delete bundles with the RaceME Ultra tuner, featuring multiple power levels, DPF delete pipes (4" or 5"), and complete EGR delete components. At SPETUNER, we offer high-quality all-in-one kits with everything you need for optimal performance. Read more: What is the best delete kit for 6.7 Cummins?
How much does it cost to delete and tune 6.7 Cummins?
Complete delete and tune costs typically range from $1,500 to $3,000. Individual tuners cost $649-$1,600, while complete kits with tuner, pipes, and EGR delete run $1,500-$2,500. Newer 2022-2024 models may cost more due to ECM swap requirements. Professional installation is additional.
Is it legal to delete emissions on my 6.7 Cummins?
No. Federal law (Clean Air Act Section 203) prohibits removing emissions equipment in all 50 states, even if your state skips emissions testing. EPA fines reach $4,500 per violation for individuals and $37,500+ for shops, with some cases resulting in criminal charges. Deletes are intended for off-road use only. Read more: Is Deleting Diesel Emissions Legal?
