We've all heard from forums and numerous outlets that deleting the DPF and SCR on your Powerstroke is the way to go these days. What we have never seen backing these claims is data and tests. It's always hearsay that seem to find it's way to fueling the debate on whether to delete or keep your emissions system in-tact.  As you probably know, we like to put these tales to the test to try to figure out for ourselves what the truth is behind what you should really do with your factory emissions system. 

1. The DPF does NOT restrict your horsepower.

 Many people think that while they're deleting their 2011 - 2023 Powerstroke for reliability they will also gain more power in the process.  While many forums would lead you to believe this, it's simply not factual.  We tested and analyzed data from the industry's most popular delete tuning and compared it to our emissions-compliant tuning on the same truck, on the same dyno.  Our customized tuning using the Edge Insight Pro for Fords actually made more power than the "200+ HP" delete tuner did (Warhammer = 474HP / Insight Pro = 480 HP). 

Custom Tuning is necessary to gain more power whenever you delete your truck. Custom Tuning manipulates every critical command in your engines such as timing, fuel, and boost.  Tuning a Powerstroke will make the same power whether you have your emissions system removed or still on the truck. With supporting modifications like an intake, upgraded turbo, fuel pump, and injectors we have even seen trucks make over 570hp into the 600hp range on emissions in-tact trucks. 

2. Deleting your DPF to save you money does NOT make sense. 

The common idea is that deleting your truck can save you money on fuel and potentially costly break downs or repairs later down the line. However the return on your investment may not be as good as you think. We calculated how much money it costs to fully delete a Powerstroke versus yearly average maintenance costs on  a emissions in-tact 2015 Powerstroke truck, and you'd be shocked by the results. After you factor in things like the cost of removal, new exhaust system parts, tuning, and how much you depreciate the value of your vehicle by removing the emissions system you're sitting somewhere in the ball park of $6,000-$7,000 after a full delete. Average yearly maintenance on a 2015 Powerstroke is reported to be around $1,400 per year on average. That leaves over 4 years until you see any return on your investment. Not to mention deleting your truck can lead to fines and legal consequences,  which can even further offset any perceived financial benefits.

3. Deleting your DPF will NOT get you better fuel economy

The common theory on MPGs and Emission Equipment is that since regeneration requires fuel to be sprayed into the exhaust during that cycle the emissions equipment is killing your fuel mileage. Most think that by simply deleting their DPF they are not only riding themselves of this consent consumer of fuel but also removing an obstruction that can potentially get them even greater fuel economy. However, DPF deletion without proper tuning  can alter the fuel-to-air ratio, causing the engine to run less efficiently. This can lead to increased fuel consumption and ultimately negate any short-term fuel savings.

4. Emissions Equipment is more reliable than you think.

Ford and it's competitors have pushed factory emissions equipment to a new level in the past decade. As we all know, these trucks when first equipped with DPF/EGR/DEF all faced some serious needs for tweaks and improvements. The components used in 6.7L Powerstroke's are now truly built to last and do no harm to the operation of the engine in any way. Do keep in mind though that some emissions system components, like most parts of the truck, will need to be maintained throughout the life of the truck. Part of this maintenance also means allowing the truck to go through full regeneration cycles once it begins. If you need any help fixing your emissions system related issue feel free to give us a call at (815)-568-7920. We are always happy to help.

5. Resale value.

A set of rims and tires is one thing but deleting your Powerstroke will instantly decrease it's re-sale value. On top of that deleting your truck will also make it impossible to sell or trade your truck in to a dealer. We often get calls from customers asking to purchase emission system components so they can sell their trucks back to a dealer. While you may be able to sell it to a third party for a reasonable price, it will still be a hard sell to an educated buyer. Many buyers are reluctant to pick up a truck that's deleted given the fact they can face a fine or impound for not running the vehicle with factory emissions equipment. Keeping your stock DPF and emissions equipment intact will ensure you won't have a problem selling your vehicle. 

6. Legal ramifications.

We really can't stress this enough. Deleting your truck is a federal crime. You can be fined, your truck can be impounded, and in some of the most sever cases we've seen your truck can even be crushed if you choose not to comply. As more and more states adopt emissions testing laws and regulations the likelihood of being able to get around federal emissions laws for the average Joe becomes smaller and smaller. We have heard many industry leaders take a step back from the delete market because of these liabilities. The age of deleting may be nearing its end but that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice on power! There are still plenty of 49 and 50 state legal products that can add plenty of horsepower to a fully in-tact truck. Be sure to protect yourself and your truck for the long run by always making sure the products you're buying are complaint for the areas you live in. 

6. Conclusion.

In light of these findings, it's clear that the age of deleting may be approaching its end. However, the pursuit of power need not be sacrificed. Legitimate, 49 and 50 state legal products offer ample horsepower enhancements for fully intact trucks. Protect yourself and your truck by ensuring that the products you choose comply with the regulations in your area.

In navigating the landscape of Powerstroke modifications, making informed decisions based on data and tests will ultimately lead to a more satisfying and responsible ownership experience. At [Your Company Name], we remain committed to empowering truck owners with accurate information and helping them make choices that align with both their performance aspirations and legal obligations. Choose wisely, and may your journey on the road be powerful, compliant, and rewarding.