The 5.9L Cummins engine, a powerhouse known for its reliability and longevity, utilizes grid heaters to assist in cold-weather starting. However, some owners opt for a grid heater delete, a modification that removes these heaters from the system. This decision, however, warrants careful consideration, as it presents both advantages and significant drawbacks. This comprehensive guide will explore the reasons behind a grid heater delete, the potential risks, and viable alternatives.
Why Delete the Grid Heaters?
The primary motivation behind a grid heater delete on a 5.9 Cummins is often a perceived improvement in starting performance, particularly in warmer climates. Some owners believe that the grid heaters are unnecessary in milder temperatures, potentially slowing down the starting process and adding unnecessary load to the battery. Furthermore, a failed grid heater can lead to no-start conditions, so proactive removal might seem like a preventative measure to some. Finally, a grid heater delete can be part of a broader engine modification project aiming for increased efficiency or performance.
What are the Risks of Deleting the Grid Heaters?
While the perceived benefits might seem appealing, removing the grid heaters introduces several potential risks:
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Difficult Cold-Weather Starting: The most significant risk is the difficulty, or even inability, to start the engine in cold weather. Grid heaters are designed to preheat the combustion chamber, significantly aiding starting in freezing temperatures. Without them, the engine will rely solely on the glow plugs, which might be insufficient in extreme cold.
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Increased Engine Wear: Difficult starting puts added strain on the starter motor, battery, and other components, potentially leading to premature wear and tear. This can result in higher maintenance costs in the long run.
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Potential for Damage: Repeatedly struggling to start the engine in cold conditions can damage components such as the starter, battery, and even the engine itself.
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Voiding Warranty: Modifying the engine's original components can void any existing warranty. This is crucial to consider before undertaking any such modification.
What Happens if a Grid Heater Fails?
A failed grid heater can lead to a no-start condition, particularly in colder temperatures. The engine might crank but fail to ignite due to the lack of sufficient heat in the combustion chamber. This necessitates either repair or replacement of the faulty grid heater or, in the case of a delete, a tow to a repair shop.
Are There Alternatives to Deleting the Grid Heaters?
Before considering a delete, explore alternative solutions:
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Replacing faulty grid heaters: If a grid heater is malfunctioning, replacing it is a far safer and more sensible option than a complete delete.
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Improved Battery: A high-quality, high-capacity battery can improve starting performance in cold weather, even with the grid heaters in place.
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Battery Booster: A battery booster provides extra power for starting, particularly beneficial in extremely cold conditions or if the battery is weak.
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Block Heater: A block heater is a more effective solution for extremely cold climates. It warms the engine coolant, making starting considerably easier.
Conclusion: Weigh the Risks Carefully
The decision to perform a grid heater delete on a 5.9 Cummins requires careful consideration of the potential risks versus the perceived benefits. While removing the grid heaters might seem appealing in warmer climates, the potential for significant problems in cold weather makes it a risky modification. Exploring alternatives such as replacing faulty heaters, upgrading the battery, or using a block heater offers safer and more reliable solutions for improving cold-weather starting performance. Always prioritize the long-term health and reliability of your engine over short-term gains.
