Every time a diesel truck’s performance is bumped up a notch, it makes a difference. A 6.7 Cummins grid heater delete with intake horn delivers significant benefits—typically more power, improved throttle response, and better engine efficiency—to 2018 Ram 2500 owners with 6.7 Cummins under the hood. This extensive guide will discuss these upgrades, the advantages of doing so, steps you can take for installation, and factors to consider to achieve maximum performance.
What does it mean to be in the stock configuration
Grid Heater & Intake Horn Function
The grid heater in this engine functions like that in the 6.7L Cummins, and as a result, the grid heater is made to heat the intake air duct in cold starts for better combustion in freezing temperatures. Though this function is vital for cold-start consistency in colder climes, it can also cause airflow restrictions. The intake horn (or intake elbow) channels the air from the intercooler into the intake manifold. These parts are part of the stock intake system designed to optimize performance versus emissions and reliability. However, stock setup can quickly become a crutch for performance-oriented people.
Stock Limitations
While helpful in colder climates, the grid heater provided in the factory is known to obstruct airflow. That means the engine may not get all of the air it needs during high-demand situations, leading to less than optimal engine breathing. Stock intake horns are also fine for everyday driving, but they might not provide as smooth, unrestricted airflow as performance mods do. These limitations can result in less available horsepower, a slow throttle response, and increased exhaust gas temperature when loaded heavily.
The Advantages of Doing a Grid Heater Delete
Improved Cooling and Engine Airflow
Uninstalling the grid heater—a process the denizens of the interwebs refer to as a “grid heater delete”—removes a significant source of airflow restriction. This process involves disconnecting the grid heater from the intake system. When no heater grid exists, air can flow more freely into the intake manifold. The intake horn upgrade involves replacing the stock intake horn with a larger, more efficient aftermarket design. This aids in a more effective combustion process, ultimately leading to power and torque gains. Performance types appreciate even the modest gains available from increased airflow when every particle of air counts.
Improved Throttle Response
Thanks to a less restrictive intake system, the engine has more air more quickly when you stomp the accelerator. That enhanced throttle response is pronounced for high-demand situations like towing or off-road driving. A faster response can lead to more engaging driving and better overall performance.
Decreased Exhaust Gas Temperature (EGT)
The right amount and speed of airflow are essential to keep engine temperatures low and allow combustion to do what it is designed to do. Delete the grid heater; cooler, denser air reaching the engine can lower EGTs. Lower EGTs equate to longer engine life and help stave off potential overheating in heavy-duty applications.
Decreased Electrical Load
As such, disengaging this part minimizes the entire electrical load of the vehicle’s device. This reduction can benefit trucks with more aftermarket electrical modifications, funneling more energy into performance upgrades rather than auxiliary systems.
The OEM Intake Horn versus the Aftermarket Intake Horn
Benefits Of The Stock Design
The new intake horn is optimized to create a smoother, straighter path for air into the engine. Aftermarket designs are often narrow and have softer curves, promoting less turbulence and pressure drop. This leads to some significant performance advantages over the stock design:
Higher Air Flow: The new intake horn can supply more air into the engine, enhancing combustion efficiency and power output.
Faster Turbo Spin-Up: Because there is less resistance in the intake path, the turbocharger can spin faster, lowering the lag time and improving acceleration.
Fuel Efficiency Benefits: Better airflow leads to enhanced performance and possibly more efficient fuel combustion processes, which could yield better fuel economy.
2018 Ram 2500 Advantages Introduced
An upgraded intake horn significantly boosts the 6.7L Cummins in the 2018 Ram 2500. Due to the truck’s heavy-duty setup, the engine frequently works hard beyond its limits, especially when towing and off-roading. The aftermarket intake horn for this kit is specific to this model, further ensuring the fitment and performance gains are optimized for its truck-specific application. Improved airflow means more immediate engine response and better capability in challenging situations.
The Power of Fusion: The Combined Benefits
Engine Capability Utilization
In addition, you eliminate two significant airflow restriction sources with a grid heater delete and a better intake horn. Together, this combination can lead to exponential performance improvements. This dramatically improves the flow into the intake manifold without the grid heater. Combined with an optimized intake horn, air into the engine is a constant, high-volume flow. The result is a stronger, more responsive engine that provides more horsepower and torque from idle to redline.
Real-World Performance Gains
Experience the satisfaction of real-world performance gains. Owners who have made these changes report significant improvements in throttle response, acceleration, and engine note. This feedback is a testament to the effectiveness of these modifications.
Impact on Fuel Economy
Although they aim to increase performance, most users experience better fuel economy. Better airflow and combustion mean the engine operates more efficiently, so fuel is burned more effectively. “Over the longer term, modest gains in fuel economy can add up to substantial savings, particularly for long-hauls and heavy loads.”
Management and Possible Disadvantages
Cold Weather Performance
A considerable contention with eliminating the grid heater is how it would affect cold starts. The grid heater is essential for warming up the intake air to make a start in low temperatures. Without it, expect rougher starts, more white smoke at startup, and rougher idling in colder climes. Read on to determine if the advantages of better airflow outweigh these possible drawbacks, especially if you live where winter can be severe.
Environmental Emissions and Regulatory Compliance
It’s important to note that modifying your vehicle, including the grid heater and intake horn, may void your warranty. Like any emissions control equipment, the grid heater is regulated, and tampering with it is illegal. Tampering with emissions-related components may also be unlawful in some jurisdictions under local or federal law. Be sure to research what is required by law where you live and keep your vehicle compliant as we move forward with these mods.
Installation and Tuning
Most aftermarket parts are designed for a bolt-on installation, but some technical knowledge may be needed. All these changes are best left with experts who know how to make sure these are done with exact fitment and needed tuning. This ensures that reaping the potential gains from the upgrades is maximized and that problems like improper air-fuel ratios or sensor malfunctions are a thing of the past.
Long-Term Reliability
As with any mod, the long-term reliability of the upgrades is down to the quality of the parts and the process used to install them. You will receive better durability and performance gains with high-quality parts from reputable manufacturers. Investing in all aspects that enhance performance and can endure the daily grind of heavy-duty driving over time is a must.
Practical Tips for Success
Evaluate Your Driving Environment: Consider your truck’s climate and general use. If cold conditions are typical for you, consider carefully whether a grid heater is worth the potential drawbacks.
Seek Expert Advice: Speak to experienced diesel mechanics or performance specialists for guidance on the best upgrades for your particular vehicle and performance objectives.
Consider Upgrading the Suspension: After adding power, maintain control over your vehicle by ensuring the suspension is up to the task and considering upgrades if necessary. Good-quality components will provide you with more consistent results and better support.
Keep the Engine under Close Surveillance: After installing the upgrades, monitor the engine performance. Establish monitoring parameters like EGTs, fuel economy, and throttle response to confirm that the modifications provide the desired results.
Plan for Tuning: How an intake system upgrade can affect your motor’s air-fuel configuration. We recommend tuning your engine for best performance and ensuring the modifications align with your vehicle’s system.
Conclusion
However, for the 6.7L Cummins engine owners, specifically owners of a 2018 Ram 2500 intake horn, the performance gains of this grid heater deleted with an aftermarket intake horn are huge. When executed correctly, these changes not only result in a power boost but can also improve the throttle response and, in some cases, deliver better fuel economy thanks to freer-flowing exhaust gases and enhanced combustion events. Of course, these improvements must be weighed against challenges like cold start and emissions compliance.Ultimately, the right upgrade done well can turn your truck into an absolute powerhouse, ready for whatever you throw. By preparing thoroughly, working with professionals, and utilizing top-notch parts, you can unlock the power of your 6.7L Cummins engine while also guaranteeing dependability over the long haul and compliance. Whether you plan to tow heavy loads, indulge in off-road trails, or want to make your ride more thrilling, these modifications unlock your engine’s power potential.
