Maximizing Airflow and Performance: The 6.7 Cummins Grid Heater Delete Kit & Intake Horn Upgrade
The 6.7L Cummins engine is a powerhouse known for its durability and performance. However, diesel enthusiasts and truck owners always look for ways to enhance airflow, reduce restrictions, and boost efficiency. One popular modification is the 6.7 Cummins grid heater delete kit, often paired with an upgraded intake horn. These upgrades improve throttle response, increase horsepower, and prevent potential failures caused by the stock grid heater.
This article will explore how a grid heater delete kit and intake horn upgrade work together, their benefits, installation tips, and whether they’re the proper modifications for your Cummins-powered truck.
Why Delete the Grid Heater on a 6.7 Cummins?
Understanding the Grid Heater’s Role
The grid heater in a 6.7 Cummins is an electric heating element inside the intake manifold. Its primary function is to preheat incoming air in cold temperatures, making engine startup easier and reducing white smoke emissions. While this feature is beneficial in freezing conditions, it can create airflow restrictions and sometimes lead to mechanical failures.
Problems with the Factory Grid Heater
Many Cummins owners choose to remove the grid heater due to these common issues:
Airflow Restriction: The heating element and mounting hardware create turbulence, slowing incoming air and reducing combustion efficiency.
Bolt Failure Risks: Some 6.7 Cummins engines have experienced grid heater bolt failures, where the bolt securing the heating element breaks off and enters the cylinders, causing catastrophic engine damage.
Carbon Buildup & Clogging: Over time, soot and carbon deposits accumulate on the heater element, further restricting airflow and affecting performance.
Alternative Cold-Start Solutions: Many truck owners in mild climates don’t need the grid heater, and block heaters provide a safer alternative in cold weather.
How a Grid Heater Delete Kit Fixes These Issues
A grid heater delete kit replaces the restrictive heating element with a smooth, open passageway. This allows for:
Better Airflow: Unobstructed air movement means improved combustion and increased power.
Eliminated Risk of Bolt Failure: No grid heater means no bolts that can break and damage your engine.
Lower Intake Temperatures: Removing the heating element prevents unnecessary heat soaking in the intake, keeping the air cooler and denser for combustion.
Pairing a Grid Heater Delete with an Upgraded Intake Horn
The Role of the Intake Horn in a 6.7 Cummins
The intake horn (an intake elbow) is critical to the air delivery system. It directs air from the intercooler into the intake manifold. A restrictive stock intake horn can limit airflow, leading to turbo lag, inefficient fuel combustion, and sluggish throttle response.
Benefits of an Upgraded 6.7 Cummins Intake Horn
Replacing the restrictive factory intake horn with a high-flow performance intake horn offers several benefits:
Smoother Airflow: Designed with wider openings and optimized curves to minimize turbulence.
Increased Power & Torque: More efficient air delivery leads to better combustion and more usable power.
Reduced Turbo Lag: Improves throttle response by allowing the turbo to spool up faster.
Enhanced Fuel Efficiency: A better air-to-fuel ratio leads to more complete combustion and improved MPG.
Why Upgrade Both?
Combining a grid heater delete kit with an upgraded intake horn creates the ultimate airflow upgrade for your Cummins engine. The delete kit removes restrictions inside the manifold, while the intake horn ensures smooth, high-volume airflow, maximizing performance gains.
Installation Guide: What to Expect
Tools & Materials Needed
Ratchet & Socket Set
Torque Wrench
Gasket Sealant
Grid Heater Delete Kit
Performance Intake Horn
Installation Steps
- Disconnect the Battery to prevent electrical issues.
- Remove the Factory Intake Horn using a ratchet and socket set.
- Detach the Grid Heater Assembly by unbolting it from the intake manifold.
- Install the Grid Heater Delete Plate to ensure a proper seal.
- Install the New Intake Horn and tighten it to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Reconnect All Sensors & Battery and check for leaks.
Note: A custom ECM tune is recommended after installation to optimize fuel delivery and prevent check engine lights.
Is a Grid Heater Delete Right for You?
While deleting the grid heater and upgrading the intake horn offer significant benefits, they may not be ideal for every driver.
Best for Performance Enthusiasts – This upgrade is necessary if maximizing airflow and power is your goal.
Recommended for Warm Climates – If you rarely experience freezing temperatures, the grid heater delete won’t negatively impact cold starts.
Essential for High-HP Builds – If you’ve upgraded your turbo or injectors, unrestricted airflow becomes even more critical.
Not Ideal for Cold Climates – If you frequently drive in subzero temperatures, you may need an alternative cold-start solution, like a block heater.
Final Thoughts: Unlock Your Cummins’ Full Potential
Upgrading to a 6.7 Cummins grid heater delete kit and performance 6.7 Cummins intake horn is one of the best ways to improve airflow, increase horsepower, and reduce the risk of grid heater-related failures. Whether you’re looking for faster turbo response, better throttle control, or a safer engine, these modifications deliver noticeable improvements.
Choose high-quality components from trusted brands and consider professional tuning after installation for the best results. With the proper setup, you’ll unleash the full power of your Cummins diesel, making it more responsive, efficient, and reliable than ever.
