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What should I install first？
September 2, 2024

What should I install first？

If I want my truck to look resurrected, where should I start?

Key Takeaways

  • Always install the delete tuner FIRST — it prevents fault codes and engine protection mode when emissions components are removed
  • The correct installation order is: 1) Tuner, 2) Delete pipe/exhaust, 3) EGR delete kit — each step depends on the previous one
  • Installing exhaust before the tuner will trigger immediate check engine codes and potentially put the truck in limp mode
  • Budget 2-3 hours for tuner setup, 3-5 hours for exhaust, and 3-4 hours for EGR delete — plan a full weekend for all three
  • A complete delete package (tuner + exhaust + EGR) costs $2,000-4,500 and delivers the best value when done together

Here is the process : 

1. Install your Delete Tuner  

2. Install your Delete pipe/exhaust

3. Install your EGR Delete Kit. 

If you haven't purchTuner EGR / DPF / DEF / CCV Kitased the complete deletion package yet, you can consider: Tuner EGR/DPF/DEF/CCV Kit

Although our tuner and components are designed to be easy to install, installing them requires some time and patience. We strongly recommend installing in the possible locations left by the truck to prevent you from receiving a faulty tuner, experiencing technical issues, or being unable to complete the installation in one go.

i: Installing the complete package may take several hours. It depends on your familiarity with trucks and the tools at hand. If you have read this installation guide and do not fully believe that you can install the kit, we strongly recommend that you hire a professional store to install the kit for you. The Diesel Dudes team is unable to assist you with the actual installation of the kit. We provide information for you to install it yourself, or you can pass on the information to your installation professional.

ii: Sometimes there may be technical issues with the tuner. Although we can certainly help quickly resolve these issues, please note that our tuning technicians may take up to 1 business day to respond to technical inquiries. If your truck is your daily driver or important to your business operations, please avoid installing the kit the day before important dates. Please remember, 9/10 installations are simple and no problem. But we hope to avoid any pressure on you, so these are our suggestions.

1. Install Your Delete Tuner

The first thing you want to install is the delete tuner. 

Before you go ahead and do this, we have a step 0 : 

First thing you will want to do is unplug the Air Intake Throttle Valve, you can find more information on that here : Air Intake Throttle Valve

After this is complete, the next thing you want to do is ensure your battery is fully charged and you have a GOOD battery charger hooked up to your truck for the installation. This is REQUIRED!!! 

Make sure all extra electronics are unplugged for the duration of the installation. 

If you have a SOTF ( SHIFT ON THE FLY ) switch and are wanting to install it, you can do this before or after the tunes are installed. We suggest that you install the tuner first, and see if the tunes were installed correctly... THEN install the switch, however, it ultimately does not matter. 

After your tunes are installed, you are encouraged to start your truck to see if it worked. DO NOT DRIVE AROUND WITHOUT THE HARD PARTS DELETED!!

If you do run into any issues with the tune installation, please visit this instructions : Tuner Support

2. Install Your Delete Pipe/Exhaust

Now that your tunes are successfully installed, its time for the delete pipe.

  • Do not drive your truck without deleting the DPF&CAT/Exhaust
  • In our instructions we suggest that you do this right after the tuner.

Depending on if you purchased the DPF&CAT pipe or the exhaust, the process will be very similar. 

If you got the DPF&CAT pipe : DPF Delete Kit

If you got the Full exhaust, it is quite straight forward, you simply need to remove the exhaust system 

On both the DPF&CAT pipe and the Full Exhaust, you will need to remove all of the sensors related to the emission system. 

3. Install Your EGR Delete Kit 

Now, the last step is to install the EGR delete kit. 

If you have not purchased EGR delete KIT yet : EGR Delete kit

The EGR is an optional item to the delete. It can be done at a later time no problem. The minimum requirements for the EGR delete is that you unplug the EGR sensors. The physical device can be unplugged at a later time. 

Finally, it should be noted that

It should be noted that if you do not perform the deletion operation in this order
We suggest following the above steps to ensure successful installation.
If you have indeed completed the difficult parts before the adjustment, please ensure that there is no code during the adjustment installation process.
You may see some DTC codes related to your emission system But if possible, please clear the music before loading it!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the tuner need to be installed first?

The tuner must be installed first because it reprograms the ECM to ignore missing emissions sensors and components. Without the tune, removing any emissions part triggers immediate fault codes and potential limp mode.

Can I drive with just a tuner and no other mods?

Yes, you can run a tuner on a stock truck for improved performance without deleting anything. Many tuners offer stock-compatible power levels. This is actually a good way to evaluate the tuner before committing to deletes.

How long does a full delete installation take?

A complete delete (tuner + exhaust + EGR) typically takes 8-14 hours depending on the vehicle and your experience level. Most DIYers spread the work across a weekend, while professional shops can do it in one day.

Do I need to do all three deletes at once?

No, you can do them incrementally. However, doing them together saves time and money since the tuner needs to be reprogrammed for each component removed. Many owners start with the tuner and exhaust, then add EGR later.

What tools do I need for a delete installation?

Basic hand tools including metric sockets (8mm-18mm), wrenches, ratchet extensions, a pry bar, and jack stands or a lift. An OBD2 scanner is helpful for verifying codes are cleared. Penetrating oil is essential for rusty exhaust bolts.

Previous article Off-Road Upgrade: Step-by-Step Guide to Installing DPF & CAT (2017-2023 L5P) Delete Race Pipe

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