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JS Speed Shop's latest diesel truck which we will be updating with the latest Black Bandit products to test
By JS Speedshop Team
Updated:

Delete Kits: What They Are, How They Work and What’s Included

Legal disclaimer (Canada & U.S.): Removing or defeating factory emissions equipment on motor vehicles operated on public roads is illegal under U.S. federal law and Canada’s federal regulations. Products marketed “for off-road/competition use only” are not generally lawful for street use. Always check the laws where you live before buying or installing any kit.

What Is a Diesel Delete?

Diesel delete is the practice of removing or electronically disabling one or more factory emissions systems on a diesel truck and loading a matching ECU calibration so the engine will run without those components. In modern diesels (2007+), the systems most commonly targeted are:

  • DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) – traps soot/PM
  • EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) – reduces NOx by recirculating exhaust
  • SCR/DEF (Selective Catalytic Reduction / Diesel Exhaust Fluid) – converts NOx in the catalyst

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

What it actually does

  • Mechanically: After-treatment canisters are replaced with straight sections of pipe (or a full downpipe-back exhaust), and EGR flow is blocked using plates and revised plumbing on platforms that require it.
  • Electronically: The ECU is unlocked and reflashed so it stops checking for the missing hardware, disables related fault codes/readiness monitors, and applies a calibration matched to the new airflow/exhaust path. Many platforms add selectable power levels via Switch-On-The-Fly (SOTF).

What’s typically in the box

  • ECM/PCM unlock + tuning device (with the correct harness)
  • Tuning credits and a platform-matched calibration (some kits support remote/live tuning via Windows laptop)
  • Choice of stainless delete pipe or 4–5" downpipe-back exhaust
  • Complete EGR delete kit (block-off plates, plugs, hardware); some applications include a revised up-pipe and high-flow intake tube
  • On select platforms: SOTF multi-level tuning and transmission (TCM) tuning with a 5-position switch

What is a delete kit?

A delete kit is a package of parts—and often matching software—that removes or disables one or more factory emissions systems and recalibrates the engine computer (ECU/PCM) so the vehicle can run without those systems present. In diesel applications, the systems most often targeted are:

  • DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter)
  • EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation)
  • SCR/DEF (Selective Catalytic Reduction using Diesel Exhaust Fluid)

The goal is to reduce exhaust restriction and prevent fault codes or forced regens after hardware is removed.

How do delete kits work?

Mechanically: the aftertreatment canisters (DPF/SCR) are replaced by a delete pipe or a full downpipe-back exhaust. An EGR delete removes the EGR valve and cooler and closes off the associated passages with block-off plates and plugs. Some platforms also use a revised up-pipe and a high-flow intake tube so the exhaust and intake paths are correct once EGR hardware is gone.

Electronically: The ECU is unlocked (bench or on-vehicle, model-dependent) and flashed with a calibration that disables the readiness monitors for the removed components, suppresses related DTCs, and adjusts fueling/boost/regen logic. Many diesel platforms add selectable power levels via Switch-On-The-Fly (SOTF).

What parts do kits come with?

From the delete bundles and EGR kits featured on jsspeedshop.ca, typical contents include:

All-in-One DPF/DEF/EGR bundles

  • ECM/PCM unlock + tuning device (with the correct harness)
  • Tuning credits and a custom calibration (remote live tuning on some kits)
  • Choice of stainless delete pipe or 4–5" downpipe-back exhaust

Complete EGR valve & cooler delete kit (plates, plugs, hardware)

  • Switch-On-The-Fly tunes (multi-level, platform-specific) and, where applicable, transmission tuning with a 5-position SOTF switch

EGR-only kits

  • EGR block-off/cover plates, fasteners, coolant/exhaust plugs
  • A platform-specific passenger-side up-pipe and high-flow intake tube (where required)
  • A clear note that custom tuning is required after EGR removal

These contents vary by engine family (Cummins, Duramax, Power Stroke, etc.), but the pattern above is consistent across JS Speedshop’s listings: the mechanical parts to remove the system, plus the matching ECU solution to keep the truck drivable.

Where to see real kit contents on our site

High-level installation overview (non-procedural)

This is a conceptual guide—not step-by-step instructions. Many applications require specialty tools, ECU unlocking, and professional calibration. If you’re unsure, book a pro install.

  1. Confirm fitment & intent
     Match the kit to your exact year/engine and ensure your use case complies with local laws (off-road/competition where required).
  2. Prep the truck
     Disconnect the battery, raise/support the vehicle safely, apply penetrant to exhaust hardware, and label sensor connectors.
  3. Remove emissions hardware
     Unbolt and drop the DPF/SCR canisters and related piping; remove the EGR valve/cooler and associated lines. Retain sensors and fasteners you may need.
  4. Install replacement parts
     Fit the delete pipe or downpipe-back exhaust. Install EGR plates/plugs and, if included, the revised up-pipe and intake tube. Align and torque per supplier specs; check clearances.
  5. Unlock and tune the ECU
     Using the kit’s unlock/tuning device (and bench/vehicle harness as directed), apply the provided calibration. Load SOTF levels and transmission tuning if included. Follow any laptop/Windows instructions for remote live tuning.
  6. Final checks
     Verify for leaks, ensure the tune completed, confirm SOTF switch operation, road-test in a safe, legal environment, and re-torque after heat cycles.

Conclusion

Delete kits pair mechanical removal (pipes, plates, up-pipes, intake tubes) with electronic recalibration (ECU unlock, custom tune, SOTF) so a diesel can operate without factory aftertreatment. JS Speedshop’s bundles clearly package those elements so you know exactly what you’re getting for your platform. If you’re exploring this path, understand the legal limits in your region, and reach out if you want emissions-compliant performance alternatives or professional diagnostics.

FAQs: Delete Kits

1) What exactly is a delete kit?

A delete kit is a bundle of mechanical parts (pipes, plates, hardware) and often ECU software/tuning that allows an engine to run with certain emissions systems removed or disabled—commonly:

  • DPF (diesel particulate filter)
  • EGR (exhaust gas recirculation)
  • SCR/DEF (selective catalytic reduction / diesel exhaust fluid)

2) How do delete kits work (mechanically vs. electronically)?

  • Mechanical: Replace aftertreatment canisters with a delete pipe or a full downpipe-back exhaust; remove the EGR valve/cooler and cap the passages using block-off plates and plugs; some platforms include a revised up-pipe and intake tube.
  • Electronic: Unlock and reflash the ECU/PCM so it no longer looks for the removed hardware, adjusts regen logic, and prevents related fault codes. Many platforms add Switch-On-The-Fly (SOTF) power levels.

3) What parts come in typical JS Speedshop kits?

Contents vary by engine (Cummins, Duramax, Power Stroke), but common inclusions are:

All-in-One DPF/DEF/EGR bundles

  • ECM/PCM unlock + tuning device (with the correct harness)
  • Tuning credits and a platform-matched calibration (some kits support remote/live tuning)
  • Choice of stainless delete pipe or 4–5" downpipe-back exhaust
  • Complete EGR delete kit (plates, plugs, hardware)
  • SOTF tunes (multi-level) and, on some applications, transmission (TCM) tuning with a 5-position SOTF switch

EGR-only kits

  • EGR block-off/cover plates, fasteners, coolant/exhaust plugs
  • Platform-specific up-pipe and high-flow intake tube where required
  • A clear note that custom tuning is required after EGR removal

4) Do EGR-only kits still require tuning?

Yes. Even when only the EGR system is removed, ECU recalibration is typically required to prevent check-engine lights and to align fueling/airflow logic with the new hardware layout.

5) What is Switch-On-The-Fly (SOTF)?

SOTF is a feature (with a physical multi-position switch) that lets you select from multiple preloaded power levels without re-flashing the ECU each time. Some JS Speedshop bundles include SOTF with five levels and, on certain platforms, paired transmission tuning.

6) High-level installation overview (non-procedural)

This is a conceptual overview—not a step-by-step guide. Many applications require specialty tools and ECU unlocking. Professional installation is recommended.

  1. Confirm fitment & intent for your exact year/engine; verify what’s legal in your area.

  2. Prep the vehicle: disconnect battery, safely lift/support, soak exhaust fasteners, label sensors.

  3. Remove hardware: drop the DPF/SCR canisters and pipe sections; remove EGR valve/cooler and lines.

  4. Install replacements: fit the delete pipe or downpipe-back exhaust, EGR plates/plugs, and any included up-pipe/intake pieces; align/torque to spec and check clearances.

  5. Unlock & tune the ECU: use the included device/harness (sometimes a bench harness) to apply the calibration; load SOTF levels and TCM tuning if included.

  6. Final checks: check for leaks, verify tune completion, confirm switch operation, and re-torque after heat cycles.

7) Can I install a kit at home?

It’s possible for experienced DIYers with the right tools, space, and safety gear, but many kits involve ECU unlocking, tight exhaust work, seized fasteners, and laptop-based flashing. If any of that is unfamiliar, plan for a professional install.

8) Are kits reversible?

Generally yes—if you retained all factory parts. Reversing requires reinstalling the original hardware and flashing the ECU back to stock (or an emissions-compliant calibration).

9) Will a kit include everything I need for tuning?

All-in-one bundles typically include the unlock/tuning device, required harness, and tuning credits for your platform. Some JS Speedshop packages support remote/live tuning through a Windows laptop. Always check the specific product page for your engine/year.

10) What sensors or lines are reused?

It’s application-specific. Some sensors are unplugged or removed with the factory canisters; others are retained in the new piping. The supplied calibration accounts for what’s deleted vs. reused—follow the parts list for your exact kit.

11) Do I need any other supporting parts?

Possibly. High-mileage trucks may benefit from fresh clamps/gaskets, and some platforms call for a revised up-pipe and intake tube (these are included in certain JS Speedshop EGR kits). Always review the kit contents for your vehicle.

12) How long does installation take?

Time varies by platform, fastener condition, and whether you’re doing exhaust + EGR + tuning or EGR-only. Plan for several hours to a full day for experienced hands; more if bolts are seized or if bench-unlock/tuning steps are required.

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