What is A Delete Kit? Complete Guide

what is a delete kit? Complete Guide

A "delete kit" is a set of parts and software(diesel engine tuner) that remove or turn off a vehicle’s factory-installed emissions systems, like EGR, DPF, and DEF/SCR. 

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.

Benefits of Installing a Delete Kit

For off-road/closed-course diesel use only. Not legal for on-road vehicles in the US.

Less backpressure, quicker response: Removing blocked filters or tight exhaust parts can let exhaust flow easier. The engine may feel more responsive under load.

Fewer regen stops: Without a DPF, there is no forced regeneration cycle. That can mean less downtime in heavy, dusty, or stop-and-go off-road work.

Lower exhaust gas temps (EGT) under load: A freer-flowing system can reduce heat when towing or climbing. Lower EGTs may help engine parts last longer in harsh use.

Less soot in the intake: Without EGR flow, less soot goes back into the intake path. That can reduce buildup on the intake, valves, and turbo side.

Simpler upkeep: No DEF to refill (if SCR is removed), no DPF to monitor, and fewer sensors to trigger limp mode off-road.

Room for safe, matched tuning: With a proper off-road tune, some owners see more torque and a broader power band for work sites or closed-course pulls.

Reality check: Results vary by truck, tune, altitude, fuel quality, and how you drive. Poor tuning or cheap parts can hurt power, reliability, and safety. Always use quality hardware and a conservative tune for off-road use, and follow local laws.

Common Types of Delete Kits

1. EGR Delete Kits

Targets: EGR valve and cooler.

What changes: Stops hot exhaust from going back into the intake.

Why people want it: Less soot in the intake; may feel cleaner under load.

Notes: Tune is often used to turn off EGR checks. May affect warranty and inspections.

2. DPF Delete Kits

Targets: Diesel Particulate Filter (the soot filter).

What changes: Replaces the DPF with a straight pipe or “race” section.

Why people want it: No forced regens; freer exhaust flow off-road.

Notes: Needs a matching tune to stop regen and warning lights. Can raise smoke and noise.

3. DEF/SCR Delete Kits

Targets: DEF tank/injector and SCR system that cuts NOx.

What changes: Removes or disables DEF use and related sensors.

Why people want it: No DEF refills; simpler off-road setup.

Notes: Requires a tune to avoid errors. Affects emissions and legal status.

4. All-in-One Delete Kits (Combo Kits)

Targets: EGR + DPF + DEF/SCR together.

What changes: Full hardware swap plus software tune.

Why people want it: Single package for off-road builds.

A “full delete” typically means DPF + EGR + SCR/DEF are taken out of operation. A “DPF delete” or “EGR delete” targets only that subsystem.

5. CCV/PCV Reroute (Related, not a full “delete”)

Targets: Crankcase ventilation routing.

What changes: Reroutes oily vapors away from the intake.

Why people want it: Helps reduce intake gunk.

Notes: Not a replacement for emissions gear. Check local rules.

Type Tune needed Install difficulty Typical parts price (USD)
EGR Delete Yes Medium $80–$300
DPF Delete Yes Med–High $150–$800 (race pipe/turbo-back options vary)
DEF/SCR Delete Yes Medium $120–$300 for CAN-bus/plug hardware (tune extra)
All-in-One (Combo) Yes (exact file) High $1,000–$3,100 for many platforms; some newer builds higher
CCV/PCV Reroute (related) Usually No Low–Med $40–$250 (premium kits can be more)


Quick Comparison

Main goal:

  • EGR delete kits: Cut soot flowing into intake.
  • DPF delete kits: Remove soot filter/regens.
  • DEF/SCR delete kits: Stop DEF use and NOx control.
  • All-in-One delete kits: Do all three at once.

Needs a tune?

Usually yes for EGR, DPF, and DEF/SCR changes.

What’s Typically Included in Kits

A delete kit is not just one item. It’s a package that comes with two main types of parts. You must have both for the delete to work.

The Hardware (The Physical Parts)

These are the "hard" metal parts that you (or a mechanic) will install on the truck.

1. A "Delete Pipe": This is the biggest part. It’s a simple, empty metal pipe. It is built to replace the big, bulky DPF filter and SCR system that you cut out of the exhaust. It lets the exhaust flow straight through, like an old-fashioned tailpipe.

2. EGR Block-off Plates: These are small, solid pieces of metal. When you remove the EGR system, it leaves holes in the engine. These plates are used to cover and seal those holes.

3. Plugs and Gaskets: The kit will also include any small bolts, plugs, and seals you need to finish the job and prevent leaks.

The Software (Diesel Engine Tuner)

Tunr is the "smart" and most important part of the kit. It is a small electronic device that plugs into your truck's computer port.

If you just remove the hardware, your truck's computer (ECU) will panic. This will turn on the "Check Engine" light and put the truck in a low-power "limp mode."

We sell the Mini Maxx Tuner reprograms the ECU. It tells the computer to "forget" the missing parts. This stops the warning lights and lets the truck run normally with full power.

In short, the pipes get rid of the physical parts. The tuner gets rid of the computer problems.

Top Delete Kits for Popular Truck Models

Spetuner provides high-performance delete kits for thousands of customers and has been trusted since 2020. Here are the diesel platforms most owners ask about. Kits for these trucks are widely available, and SPETUNER makes model-specific kits.

For Ram 2500/3500 — 6.7L Cummins

2010–2012: SPETUNER lists EGR deletes, DPF race pipes, and full bundles for early 6.7L trucks. Fitment notes are model-year specific. 👉Shop SPETUNER kit now>>>

2013–2018: SPETUNER offers an all-in-one kit (EGR + DPF + DEF) with a matched tuner for these years. Cab & chassis options exist. 👉Buy DPF/DEF/EGR All-in-one kit now>>>

2019+ (through current): There’s a 2019–2021 all-in-one kit plus a 2019+ Cummins collection page covering newer models. Always match by year and PCM/tune notes. 👉Shop DPF/DEF/EGR Delete for Ram 2019-2021 now>>>

For Ford F-250/F-350 — 6.7L Power Stroke

2011–2019: SPETUNER sells an all-in-one delete bundle for these model years. EGR-only options are also listed. 👉Shop SPETUNER kit for your 2011–2019 Ford now>>>

2020–2025: SPETUNER has a current all-in-one kit tailored to the newer after-treatment layout and sensors. Use the exact year when choosing tunes. 👉Shop DPF/EGR/CCV All-in-One Delete Kit  now>>>

For Chevy/GMC 2500/3500 — 6.6L Duramax

LML (2011–2016): SPETUNER carries a full delete kit and a dedicated LML collection. These include the hardware plus a compatible tuner. 👉Buy LML delete kit now>>>

L5P (2017–2023/25): SPETUNER sells a best-seller all-in-one kit for L5P trucks (hardware + plug-and-play tuner). This is one of the most requested platforms industry-wide. 👉Shop all-in-one l5p delete kit now>>>

For Ram 1500 / Jeep Grand Cherokee — 3.0L EcoDiesel

2014–2018: SPETUNER lists EcoDiesel options, including a Ram 1500 EGR delete kit and a Grand Cherokee DPF race pipe. Space is tight on these, so check fitment. 👉Buy SPETUNER kit for your EcoDiesel now>>>

Final Thoughts

Delete kits can help you get more from your diesel off-road. Whether you drive a Ford F-250, Ram 6.7 Cummins, or Chevy/GMC 6.6 Duramax, SPETUNER offers model-specific kits. Many owners report stronger pull, fewer regens, and simpler upkeep on closed courses.

Use common sense. Match the kit and tune to your year and engine. Keep your stock parts. And remember: on-road deletes are illegal in the US.

Ready to upgrade your off-road build?
👉 Shop SPETUNER delete kits>>>
👉 Request wholesale pricing>>>

FAQs About Delete Kits

1. Are delete kits legal?

No-not for road use in the US. Off-road only. Check your local rules.

2. What does a delete kit include?

Hardware (plates, race pipe, clamps, gaskets) + a tune file/handheld tuner. Docs and fit notes. Labor/fluids/tools are not included.

3. What's the cost of a delete kit?

From a few hundred dollars to several thousand, based on truck, parts, tune, and install.

4. Will deleting void my warranty?

Yes. It can lead to denied claims, especially for engine, exhaust, or emissions parts.

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