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 always seems to be hearsay that fuels the debate over whether to delete your emissions-intact truck. We like to put these tales to the test to figure out for ourselves what the truth behind them is. What should you really do with your factory emissions system when it comes to what's best for you and your truck? 

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 and maximize engine efficiency, so they have 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.

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 produce the same power whether your emissions system is removed or still on the truck. With supporting modifications like an intake, an upgraded turbo, a fuel pump, and injectors, we have even seen trucks reaching the 630 hp range on emissions-intact trucks. 

(2021 Emissions Intact 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 help prevent costly breakdowns or repairs down the line. However, the return on your investment may not be as good as you think. We calculated how much it costs to fully delete an L5P versus the yearly average maintenance costs for an emissions-intact 2017 L5P, and you'd be shocked by the results. After you factor in the cost of removal, new exhaust components, fab work, tuning, and the depreciation of your vehicle from removing the emissions system, your cost to delete is around $6,000-$7,000. Average yearly maintenance for a 2017 L5P is reported to be around $1,000. That leaves up to 7 years until you start to see any return on your investment. Not to mention, deleting your truck can lead to government fines and legal ramifications, which can further offset any perceived financial benefits.

Another potentially costly expense of deleting your truck can be the tuning involved. Specifically, regarding 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 without any 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 ridding themselves of this constant fuel consumer but also removing an obstruction that could potentially improve their 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.

The components used in an 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 emission system components, like most parts of the truck, will need to be maintained throughout the truck's life. Part of this maintenance also involves allowing the truck to complete 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 wheels and tires is one thing, but deleting your L5P will instantly decrease its resale value. On top of that, deleting your truck will also make it difficult 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 been deleted, given that they could face a fine or impoundment 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 severe 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 that the average Joe can get around federal emissions laws decreases. 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 intact truck. Be sure to protect yourself and your truck in the long run by always making sure the products you buy are compliant with the areas where you live. 

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 the products you choose comply with local regulations.

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.

Click here to see all of our L5P Duramax tuning options.