If you're tired of your truck constantly entering limp mode or burning through DEF like it's water, grabbing a 2013 cummins delete kit is likely at the top of your to-do list. The 2013 model year was a big one for the 6.7L Cummins because it was the first year Ram really doubled down on the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems using Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF). While the intention was to keep the air clean, the reality for many truck owners has been a never-ending cycle of sensor failures, clogged filters, and expensive trips to the dealership.
Honestly, the 2013 Ram 2500 and 3500 are absolute workhorses, but the emissions equipment strapped to that engine can feel like a heavy anchor. When people talk about "deleting" a truck, they're usually looking for three things: reliability, better fuel mileage, and getting back that raw power the Cummins engine is famous for. Let's get into what these kits actually do and what you should expect if you decide to go down this road.
What Exactly Comes in the Kit?
When you start shopping for a 2013 cummins delete kit, you'll notice they usually come in a few different "stages" or bundles. At its core, a full delete involves removing the hardware that restricts the exhaust flow and the system that recirculates dirty air back into the intake.
The first big piece is the DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) delete pipe. This replaces the massive, heavy canister under your truck that catches soot. Once that's gone, your exhaust can actually breathe. Then you have the EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) delete. This is the part that sits on top of the engine. It takes hot, dirty exhaust gases and pumps them back into the cylinders to lower combustion temperatures. While that sounds okay on paper, in practice, it just coats your intake manifold in a thick layer of oily soot.
Finally, you can't just pull parts off and call it a day. The truck's computer (the ECM) is going to freak out if it doesn't see those sensors. That's where the tuner comes in. A proper 2013 cummins delete kit must include a programmer or tuner to tell the truck's brain that it's okay the emissions gear is gone. Without the tune, your truck won't even start, or it'll be stuck in a permanent low-power mode.
Why Do People Actually Do This?
It's not just about making the truck louder, though that's a nice side effect for some people. The biggest driver is reliability. If you're a hundred miles from the nearest town and your DEF pump fails or a sensor decides to quit, your truck might limit you to 5 mph. That's a nightmare if you're hauling a trailer or working a job site.
By installing a 2013 cummins delete kit, you're basically removing the points of failure. You don't have to worry about the DPF getting clogged because you do too much idling. You don't have to worry about the EGR valve sticking. You're simplifying the engine back to its roots.
Another huge factor is the fuel economy. It's no secret that the regeneration process (Regen) uses extra diesel to literally "burn off" the soot in the filter. It's a waste of fuel. Most guys who delete their 2013 see an immediate jump of 2 to 4 miles per gallon. Over a year of driving, that adds up to a lot of money staying in your pocket instead of going into the tank.
The Sound and the Power
We have to talk about the "fun" side of things too. The 6.7L Cummins is a beast, but the factory exhaust hides it. Once you put on a 2013 cummins delete kit and a straight pipe, you finally get to hear that deep, throaty Cummins growl and the distinct whistle of the Holset turbo. It sounds like a real truck again.
From a power perspective, the difference is night and day. The factory tuning is very conservative to keep emissions in check. When you add a delete-capable tuner, you aren't just turning off the sensors; you're often getting access to better timing and fuel maps. The throttle response becomes much crisper. You won't feel that weird "lag" when you step on the gas at a green light.
A Quick Word on the Legal Side
I'd be doing you a disservice if I didn't mention that these kits are officially sold for "off-road use only." The EPA has been cracking down hard on emissions deletes over the last few years. If you live in a state or a county with strict emissions testing or "smog checks," you're going to have a hard time passing with a 2013 cummins delete kit installed.
Most guys who do this live in areas where they don't have to deal with those inspections, or they use their trucks strictly for farm work or competition. Just make sure you know what the rules are in your neck of the woods before you start wrenching. Getting a massive fine from a state trooper isn't exactly a great way to enjoy your newly freed-up engine.
What to Look for When Buying
Not all kits are created equal. You might find some super cheap pipes on random marketplaces, but you get what you pay for. A quality 2013 cummins delete kit should have high-grade stainless steel piping (usually 4-inch or 5-inch). Stainless is important because it's not going to rust out after one winter if you live in the salt belt.
The tuner is the most important part of the equation. You want something that has a good reputation for "clean" tunes. You don't want a truck that blows massive clouds of black smoke every time you touch the pedal—that's just asking for a ticket and it gives the diesel community a bad name. Look for tuners that offer a "tow tune" or a "daily driver" setting. These are optimized for efficiency and longevity rather than just raw, smoky power.
Is the Installation a DIY Job?
If you're handy with a wrench, you can definitely install a 2013 cummins delete kit in your driveway over a weekend. The exhaust side is pretty straightforward—it's mostly just unbolting the heavy factory stuff and hanging the new pipe. Just be warned: those factory exhaust components are incredibly heavy. You'll definitely want a buddy to help you manhandle the DPF out from under the truck.
The EGR delete is a bit more tedious. You're working in a tighter space, and you have to be careful with the coolant lines. Since the EGR system is cooled by the engine's coolant, you'll need to use the bypass hoses or plugs that come in the kit. Make sure you have a drain pan ready, because it can get a little messy.
Long-Term Engine Health
One thing people don't talk about enough is how a 2013 cummins delete kit affects the oil. In a stock truck, the EGR system dumps soot back into the intake. Some of that soot inevitably makes its way past the piston rings and into your engine oil. If you've ever noticed that your oil looks jet black only 50 miles after an oil change, that's why.
Once you delete the EGR, your oil stays much cleaner for much longer. This reduces wear and tear on the internal components of the engine. Many owners find that they can safely extend their oil change intervals, though most still stick to a regular schedule just to be safe. It's all about making that 6.7L last for 300,000 or 500,000 miles.
Wrapping It Up
At the end of the day, installing a 2013 cummins delete kit is about taking control of your vehicle. It's about knowing that when you turn the key, the truck is going to run exactly how it's supposed to without a computer sensor ruining your day.
Yes, there are some hoops to jump through with the legal stuff, and yes, it's an investment upfront. But between the fuel savings, the lack of DEF costs, and the peace of mind that comes with a simpler engine, most Ram owners find it's one of the best upgrades they ever do. Just do your research, buy a quality kit, and maybe warn your neighbors—it's about to get a whole lot louder in your driveway.