1. What are the signs that my Cummins ISX engine needs a valve camshaft replacement?

Signs include a sudden engine knock, a drop in engine performance, and reduced horsepower, which could be up to 20% lower than when using a new camshaft.

2. Why is the valve camshaft critical for my Cummins ISX engine?

The valve camshaft controls the timing of the engine’s valve system, directly impacting engine performance, power, and fuel efficiency. A worn camshaft can reduce horsepower and engine efficiency.

3. How does replacing the valve camshaft improve my Cummins ISX engine's performance?

Replacing a worn camshaft restores optimal engine timing, improving horsepower, increasing power output, and boosting overall engine performance.

4. What makes the Cummins ISX valve camshaft from Highway and Heavy Parts a quality choice?

Our camshaft is built to OEM specifications and tolerances, made from billet steel for strength and durability, and thoroughly inspected to ensure a proper fit and finish in your Cummins ISX engine.

5. What warranty comes with the valve camshaft for my Cummins ISX from Highway and Heavy Parts?

The camshaft is backed by a 1-year warranty, providing long-term reliability and peace of mind.

Will Deleting an EGR System Cause Diesel Engine Damage?

Home » Blog – All HHP Blog Articles » Will An EGR System Delete Cause Diesel Engine Damage?

It’s true: EGR valves on diesel engines have a poor reputation. You have probably heard stories about the trouble they give drivers.

Many truck owners consider EGR valves unnecessary, so when those valves fail and need expensive repairs, it’s especially annoying. Some drivers, attempting to avoid the downtime and service costs brought on by EGR issues, will even use kits to delete their EGR system from their engines. Removing your EGR system can stop its valve failure, but a deleted EGR could bring on even more engine problems. If it’s installed incorrectly, these problems could be expedited and amplified.

We’ll explain why EGR delete kits appeal to diesel truck owners, plus the problems they might cause.

What does a diesel engine EGR do?

Your EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) system is an emission control device included on several diesel engines. In addition to reducing emissions, EGR systems can improve fuel efficiency. Some truck owners might wonder if performing an EGR delete is worthwhile but it could cause expensive engine damage.

And yes, there are disadvantages to EGR delete kits. Removing your emission control device can cause engine complications. To understand why, you need to know how an EGR system works and why they’re necessary.

When your diesel engine burns fuel, the combustion process generates NOx (nitrogen oxide) emissions. NOx emissions are harmful air pollutants that damage the environment. An EGR reduces your engine emissions by recirculating part of your exhaust gas back into the combustion chamber. By recirculating exhaust gas, your EGR system helps lower the temperature of your engine’s combustion, and these lower temperatures form less NOx.

What happens if the EGR is deleted?

What if you perform an EGR delete and remove this system from your diesel engine? Without its EGR, your engine can no longer recirculate exhaust into your combustion chamber. The temperature of your combustion process rises, as does the amount of NOx produced.

Deleting your EGR system might not cause immediate damage, but it can have a long-term negative impact. Without its EGR, your engine will run at higher temperatures, increasing the stress on your engine components. Overtaxing your engine causes poorer performance and cuts down its lifespan.

EGR delete disadvantages do not end at reduced engine performance. Without the recirculated exhaust gas, you might run into reduced fuel efficiency. The increase in NOx emissions could also exceed legal limits and cause you to fail emissions tests.

Why You Should NOT Delete Your EGR System:

An engine without an EGR may produce more NOx emissions, which cause air pollution and damage the environment.
Reduced engine life and performance potentially brought on by increased wear and tear on engine components.
Vehicles may experience worse fuel efficiency from the lack of exhaust recirculation.
Vehicles with increased NOx output might fail emissions tests.
Removing the EGR system from your diesel engine might be illegal. An emission control device is required by law in some areas.

Calibrating Your EGR System After Deleting is IMPORTANT!

HHP cannot help with calibrations because they violate federal EPA laws. If you’re aware of this and choose to delete your EGR anyway, you still have a lot of work ahead. Calibrations are a precarious procedure: you must account for timing, compression ratios, and temperatures, keeping them all within specifications. If your calibrations are not flawless, the risk of your engine failing increases exponentially.

If an engine has been out long enough, calibrations will pop up. You could find a calibration online that seems to work, and other truck owners vouch for it, but who knows how it might work out long term? This operation could lead to more engine problems. It’s a gamble. That horsepower calibration might sound solid, but what if you try it out and wind up with underdeveloped horsepower and pricey repairs instead?

What Problems Can Incorrect EGR Calibrations Cause?

High Cylinder Pressure
High Temperatures
Cracked Cylinder Heads
VGT Turbo Damage

These issues aren’t always obvious, and you might not catch them until it’s too late. Some truck owners know the risks and still keep their EGR valves removed.

Diesel Engine EGR Repair and Replacement Parts

If you experience EGR failure replacing or repairing what’s damaged in your emissions system is by far the most recommended action. You can find great prices on EGR valves and EGR coolers online.

CONCLUSION

If you’re interested in using an EGR delete on your diesel engine, you must understand the potential downsides. An EGR delete could bring certain advantages, but consider the impact on your engine’s performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions compliance. Anyone considering removing their emission system should consult a knowledgeable mechanic or other professional for advice.

FAQs for Diesel Engine EGR Deletes

Q. What is an EGR system, and what does it do?

A. An Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system helps reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by recirculating a portion of exhaust gases back into the engine’s intake. This lowers combustion temperatures, reducing harmful emissions and helping diesel engines meet emissions regulations.

Q. Can deleting the EGR system improve engine performance?

A. While some believe that removing the EGR system can lead to increased power and fuel efficiency, modern diesel engines are designed to work with EGR. Deleting it can cause issues with engine calibration, emissions compliance, and potential damage to engine components.

Q. What are the risks of an EGR delete?

A. Deleting the EGR system can lead to higher combustion temperatures, which may cause increased engine wear, turbocharger stress, and potential piston damage. Additionally, it can void warranties and make your vehicle non-compliant with emissions regulations.

Q. Is it legal to delete the EGR system?

A. In most regions, EGR deletes are illegal due to emissions regulations. Removing or disabling the EGR system can result in fines, failed emissions tests, and restricted vehicle operation in some areas.

Q. What are the best alternatives to an EGR delete?

A. Instead of deleting the EGR, consider regular maintenance to keep it functioning properly. Cleaning the EGR valve, using high-quality diesel fuel, and ensuring proper engine tuning can help prevent carbon buildup and performance issues without compromising emissions compliance.