We've all heard from forums and numerous outlets that deleting the DPF and SCR on your L5P is the way to go. What we have never seen is data or tests backing up these claims. It's alway seems to be hearsay that fuels the debate on whether or not to delete your emissions in-tact truck.  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  them. What should you really do with your factory emissions system when it comes to whats best for you and your truck? Find out below. 

1. The DPF does NOT restrict your horsepower.

 Many people think that while they're deleting their 2017 - 2023 L5P 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. Modern DPFs are designed to minimize backpressure for maximum engine efficiency and thus have a minimal impact on engine performance. Engineers do try to optimize the DPF design to ensure compliance with emissions standards without significantly compromising horsepower. The L5P Duramax’s regeneration process also ensures that the DPF remains clean and clear, reducing any potential for restriction. We have also shown on the 2012 Powerstroke that our customized tuning actually made more power than a truck with a "200HP" delete tune.

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 your L5P 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 600hp into the 630hp range on emissions in-tact trucks. 

(2021 Emissions In-tact L5P With Stealth STR Turbo and Custom Tuning)

2. Deleting your DPF to save 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 L5P versus yearly average maintenance costs on an emissions in-tact 2017 L5P, and you'd be shocked by the results. After you factor in things like the cost of removal, new exhaust components/fab work, tuning, and how much you depreciate the value of your vehicle by removing the emissions system your cost to delete is around $6,000-$7,000 after everything is accounted for. Average yearly maintenance on a 2017 L5P is reported to be around $1,000 per year on average. That leaves up to 7 years until you start to see any return on your investment. Not to mention deleting your truck has the potential to lead to government fines and legal ramifications,  which can even further offset any perceived financial benefits.

Another potentially costly expense deleting your truck can bring is the tuning involved. Specifically when it comes to tuning support. As more and more U.S. based delete tuners are facing fines and legal ramifications your tuner may not be around forever. Many have been left with complete lack of tuning support after a company shuts down. This can cause all sorts of different headaches and will most likely lead you to purchase another tune. 

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 its 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 L5P 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 L5P Duramax modifications, making informed decisions based on data and tests will ultimately lead to a more satisfying and responsible ownership experience. At Calibrated Power, 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.