The 5.9 Cummins engine, a powerhouse known for its reliability and longevity, relies on grid heaters to assist cold-weather starting. However, some owners choose to delete their grid heaters, a modification that sparks debate. This comprehensive guide explores the reasons behind a grid heater delete, its potential benefits and drawbacks, and what you should consider before undertaking this modification.
Why Delete the Grid Heaters on a 5.9 Cummins?
The primary motivation for removing grid heaters is often a desire for simplification and troubleshooting ease. Grid heaters can fail, leading to hard starting or no-start conditions, especially in cold weather. By removing them, you eliminate one potential point of failure. Some owners also believe the delete improves engine performance, although this is debatable and depends on several factors. Finally, a grid heater delete can be a small part of a broader performance modification project.
What are the Potential Benefits of a Grid Heater Delete?
- Reduced Complexity: Removing the grid heaters simplifies the engine's starting system. Fewer components mean fewer potential failure points.
- Improved Starting (in some cases): While counterintuitive, some owners report improved starting, especially in moderately cold conditions. This is believed to be due to a reduction in parasitic drain on the battery.
- Potential for Slight Performance Gains (debatable): Removing the grid heaters might lead to a very slight increase in horsepower and torque, as the grid heaters consume a small amount of power. This gain, however, is usually negligible and often not measurable without extensive testing.
What are the Potential Drawbacks of a Grid Heater Delete?
- Hard Starting in Cold Weather: The most significant drawback is the increased difficulty in starting the engine in extremely cold temperatures. Without the grid heaters pre-heating the glow plugs, the engine may struggle to ignite, especially below freezing.
- Increased Wear and Tear: The increased strain on the starter motor and battery during cold starts can lead to premature wear and tear on these components.
- Voiding Warranty: Modifying your engine's starting system, even with a relatively simple delete, could void any remaining factory warranty.
How Does a Grid Heater Delete Affect Fuel Economy?
The impact on fuel economy is generally minimal. While the grid heaters consume power, this power draw is relatively insignificant compared to the overall fuel consumption of the engine. Any potential changes are likely to be too small to measure accurately in real-world driving conditions.
Is it Safe to Delete the Grid Heaters on My 5.9 Cummins?
The safety of a grid heater delete depends heavily on your climate and driving habits. If you live in an area with consistently mild winters, the risks are relatively low. However, in areas with harsh winters, the increased difficulty in starting the engine can pose problems, especially if you regularly operate the truck in freezing temperatures. Always prioritize safe operation of your vehicle.
Can I Perform a Grid Heater Delete Myself?
While technically possible for mechanically inclined individuals, a grid heater delete involves electrical work and should only be attempted if you possess the necessary skills and knowledge. Improperly disconnecting the grid heaters could potentially damage other engine components. Consider consulting a qualified mechanic if you lack the expertise.
Conclusion: Weighing the Pros and Cons
A 5.9 Cummins grid heater delete is a modification that requires careful consideration. The potential benefits of simplification and potentially improved starting in mild weather must be weighed against the increased risk of hard starting in cold conditions and potential damage to other components. The final decision depends heavily on your individual circumstances, climate, and driving habits. Always prioritize safe and reliable vehicle operation.
