If you've been looking for a 2019 ram 6.7 delete kit, you probably already know that the factory emissions system on these 5th Gen trucks can be a real headache once the miles start adding up. It's a common story: you bought a heavy-duty truck because you needed the power and reliability of the Cummins, but instead, you're dealing with "limp mode" and constant warnings about the exhaust filter being full. It feels a bit like having a world-class athlete who's forced to run a marathon through a straw.
For most owners, the decision to go with a delete kit isn't just about making the truck louder or blowing smoke—it's about longevity. These 2019 models are fantastic machines, but the EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) and DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) systems are essentially designed to make the engine "eat its own soot." Over time, that takes a toll on the internals.
Why the 2019 model year is a bit different
When Ram moved to the 5th Gen body style in 2019, they also made some significant changes under the hood. The 6.7L Cummins got a CGI (Compacted Graphite Iron) block and some different turbo setups, but they also tightened up the security on the engine control module (ECM). If you're hunting for a 2019 ram 6.7 delete kit, you'll notice that it's not quite as "plug and play" as the older 2010-2012 models.
The 2019+ trucks usually require a bit more attention when it comes to the tuning side of the delete. You can't just unbolt the hardware and expect the truck to run; the computer will absolutely lose its mind if it doesn't see those sensors. That's why a high-quality kit is usually a combination of physical parts and a specialized tuner.
Breaking down the components of the kit
So, what are you actually getting when you buy one of these? Usually, a full kit is broken down into three main categories: the exhaust side, the intake side, and the brains of the operation.
The DPF and SCR delete pipe
This is the big one. The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) are those massive, heavy canisters sitting under your truck. They're basically giant sponges for soot and NOx. A 2019 ram 6.7 delete kit includes a straight pipe or a high-flow pipe that replaces these sections. It's incredible how much weight you actually drop—those factory filters weigh a ton. Once they're gone, your exhaust flows freely, which drops your EGTs (Exhaust Gas Temperatures) significantly.
The EGR delete
While the exhaust pipe handles the "exit," the EGR delete handles the "input." The EGR valve takes hot, dirty exhaust and dumps it back into your intake manifold to be burned again. It's great for emissions but terrible for your engine's oil and valves. A delete kit provides block-off plates to stop this process. It keeps your intake air cool and clean, which means your oil stays honey-colored for much longer instead of turning pitch black five minutes after an oil change.
The Tuner
This is the most critical piece. Since the 2019 Ram uses a locked ECM, you'll usually need a device like an EZ Lynk or an MM3 that comes with custom tunes. These tunes tell the truck, "Hey, it's okay that the DPF is gone; don't go into limp mode." Beyond just clearing codes, a good tuner will often give you better throttle response and a bit of a bump in fuel economy.
The real-world benefits of deleting
Let's be honest about the numbers. Most guys notice an immediate jump in fuel mileage. When the truck isn't constantly going into "regen" mode—which basically means it's dumping extra diesel into the exhaust to burn off soot—you're naturally going to save money at the pump. It's not uncommon to see a 2 to 4 mpg improvement, depending on how heavy your foot is.
But for me, the biggest win is the reliability. When you're towing a heavy trailer through the mountains, the last thing you want is a sensor failure in the DEF system to strand you on the side of the road. By installing a 2019 ram 6.7 delete kit, you're removing the most common failure points on the modern Cummins engine. You're left with a simple, mechanical beast that just works.
Is it a "do it yourself" job?
If you're handy with a wrench and have a Saturday afternoon free, you can definitely handle the hardware. Most of the bolts are accessible, though the EGR cooler at the back of the engine can be a bit of a reach. The trickiest part is usually the sensors; they tend to get seized in place from all the heat cycles, so plenty of penetrating oil is your best friend.
However, the software side is where people get nervous. Because the 2019+ trucks are more complex, you want to make sure you follow the tuning instructions to the letter. Most kits come with a bypass cable because the firewall on these trucks blocks unauthorized communication with the ECM. You'll have to plug into the bus under the dash to get the tunes to load properly. It sounds intimidating, but once you've done it once, it makes total sense.
Things to keep in mind
We have to talk about the "elephant in the room," which is the legal side of things. These kits are technically sold for "off-road use only." If you live in an area with strict emissions testing or visual inspections, you're going to have a hard time passing with a deleted truck. It's always a good idea to keep your factory parts in the corner of the garage just in case you ever need to go back to stock.
Also, think about your warranty. If you walk into a dealership with a deleted 2019 Ram, don't expect them to cover a transmission or engine issue under warranty. Most dealers will flag the VIN immediately. If your truck is still under a bumper-to-bumper or powertrain warranty, you have to weigh that risk against the benefits of the delete.
The difference in driving feel
Once you've got your 2019 ram 6.7 delete kit installed and the tunes loaded, the truck feels like a completely different animal. The first thing you'll notice is the sound—that classic Cummins whistle and growl finally come through. But more importantly, the throttle lag is gone.
Factory trucks have a bit of a "dead spot" when you step on the gas because the computer is calculating air-to-fuel ratios for emissions. With the delete, that hesitation disappears. The turbo spools faster, the truck shifts smoother, and it just feels lighter on its feet. It's how the truck was meant to run before the EPA got their hands on it.
Wrapping it up
At the end of the day, a 2019 ram 6.7 delete kit is an investment in your truck's future. It's about taking a great platform and making it more efficient and dependable. Whether you're a full-time hotshot hauler or just someone who uses their Ram for weekend projects, getting rid of the "emissions chokehold" can really change your ownership experience. Just make sure you do your homework, pick a reputable tuner, and take your time with the install. Your Cummins will definitely thank you for it with a few hundred thousand miles of trouble-free service.