1. Introduction: Grid Heater Failure Risks & Solutions
The 6.7 Cummins engine's grid heater can pose a failure risk over time. If the bolts come loose, they may damage the cylinder heads of the fifth and sixth cylinders, leading to severe engine damage. If you frequently drive in cold environments, the stock heater may not provide the best heating performance. In such cases, replacing or deleting the grid heater is an effective solution.
SPELAB offers a 6.7 Cummins Grid Heater Delete Kit, which not only optimizes the intake system but also eliminates common failure points associated with the stock design. For cold-weather users, the SPELAB intake system retains a heating function behind the intake port, ensuring smooth engine startup in low-temperature environments while enhancing engine performance.
2. SPELAB Intake System Overview
The SPELAB 6.7 Cummins Grid Heater Delete offers the following features:
- Color Options: Available in black, silver, and red to match different user preferences.
- Lower Intake Air Temperature: Reduces air resistance, allowing the engine to operate more efficiently.
- High-Quality Materials: Made from high-temperature and corrosion-resistant materials, ensuring durability and deformation resistance.
- Reduced Electrical Load: Lowers power consumption, improving electrical system stability.
- Enhanced Airflow: Provides a smoother air passage than the stock grid heater, improving fuel combustion efficiency.
- Simplified Engine Bay Layout: Creates a cleaner and more manageable intake system.
- Emission Compliance: Designed to meet emission standards without affecting compliance.
- Wide Compatibility: Fits 2007-2012, 2013-2018, and 2019+ Ram 2500/3500 6.7L Cummins diesel engines.
3. Step-by-Step Installation Guide for the Grid Heater For 6.7 Cummins
3.1 Tools & Prerequisites
Required Tools:
- 🔧 10mm, 13mm, and 15mm socket wrenches
- 🔧 Torque wrench (ensures bolts are tightened to spec)
- 🔧 Flathead screwdriver
- 🔧 Lubricant (to loosen stuck bolts)
- 🧼 Cloth & protective pads (to prevent debris from entering the engine)
- 📸 Smartphone or camera (to document part locations before removal)
Pre-Installation Preparation:
✅ Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent short circuits.
✅ Ensure the engine is fully cooled down to avoid burns.
✅ Inspect the intake system to make sure there are no carbon deposits or debris.
✅ Review SPELAB’s installation guide to familiarize yourself with the process.
✅ Check if all tools are available to prevent interruptions during installation.
3.2 Detailed Steps for the 6.7 Cummins Grid Heater Delete
Step 1: Remove Intake System Components
1️⃣ Remove the 6.7 Cummins Horn & Intake Tube
- Use a 10mm socket wrench to remove the horn bracket.
- Detach the intake tube and cover the intake port with a cloth to prevent debris from entering.
- Inspect the intake piping for carbon buildup and clean if necessary.
2️⃣ Remove the Fuel Rail & Injector Lines
- Carefully remove the fuel rail (it’s recommended to take photos for reference).
- Use a wrench to disconnect the injector lines, ensuring the seals are not damaged.
- Be cautious of fuel leaks, and have a clean rag ready to absorb any spills.
Step 2: Remove the Stock Grid Heater
- Locate the grid heater (this may require removing some connecting pipes).
- Use a 10mm or 13mm socket wrench to remove the grid heater mounting bolts.
- Carefully extract the heater while ensuring no debris falls into the intake manifold.
- Use an air blower or a clean cloth to clean the intake port and remove any contaminants.
Step 3: Install the SPELAB Grid Heater Delete 6.7 Cummins
✅ Compare the old and new components to ensure the SPELAB heat shield fits perfectly.
✅ Install the new gasket to prevent intake leaks.
✅ Tighten bolts according to torque specifications to ensure a secure fit.
✅ Double-check all mounting points to confirm stability.
Step 4: Reinstall the Intake System
🔄 Reattach the fuel rail & intake system, ensuring all parts are installed correctly.
🔌 Reconnect the electrical system, making sure all sensors are securely connected.
🛠 Perform a final check, ensuring all bolts are properly tightened.
3.3 Common Installation Challenges & Solutions
❌ Seized or Rusted Bolts 👉 Apply lubricant + gentle tapping to loosen, or use heat if necessary.
❌ Difficult Fuel Line Removal 👉 Take photos before disassembly and use a specialized fuel line removal tool if needed.
❌ Limited Space in the Intake Area 👉 Use a longer socket wrench or a universal joint adapter for better access.
❌ Misaligned Gasket Installation 👉 Ensure proper alignment to prevent intake leaks.
3.4 Important Considerations
✅ Prevent debris from entering the engine (always cover the intake port with a cloth).
✅ Ensure all electrical connections are secure (incorrect connections may trigger fault codes).
✅ Check bolt torque settings (both under-tightening and over-tightening can impact performance).
4. Maintenance & When to Replace the Stock Grid Heater
📌 For Cold Climate Users: If winter temperatures in your area frequently drop below -10°C, consider installing an additional fuel heater or coolant pre-heater to improve cold start performance.
📌 Maintenance Recommendations:
- Inspect the intake system every 10,000 miles to check for carbon buildup.
- Verify electrical connections regularly to prevent fault codes.
- Clean the intake manifold periodically to maintain optimal engine efficiency.
- Check gasket seals annually to prevent air leaks and improve engine performance.
👉Grid Heaters Related Articles
- How to Optimize Your 6.7 Cummins: Grid Heater Delete or Upgrade?
- How to Prevent the Dreaded 6.7 Cummins Grid Heater Bolt Failure Accident?
- SPELAB 6.7 Cummins Intake Horn Installation Guide: Do You Need to Delete the Grid Heater?
- Why Delete the Grid Heater for 6.7L Cummins?
5. FAQ
Q1: Does deleting the grid heater affect engine lifespan?
A1: No, proper installation of the SPELAB Grid Heater Delete Kit improves airflow efficiency and reduces carbon buildup, which may extend engine longevity.
Q2: Will deleting the grid heater trigger a check engine light?
A2: No, SPELAB’s design ensures compatibility with the ECU, so no fault codes will be triggered.
Q3: Do I need to reprogram the ECU after removing the grid heater?
A3: No, SPELAB’s grid heater delete plate is a direct bolt-on replacement and does not require ECU modifications.
Q4: How can I prevent debris from entering the intake system during installation?
A4: Use a cloth or tape to seal off the intake port while working to prevent foreign objects from falling in.
Q5: Which vehicles is this product compatible with?
A5: It fits 2007-2012, 2013-2018, and 2019+ Ram 2500/3500 6.7L Cummins trucks.
🚗 How was your installation experience? Share your feedback in the comments below! 🔧🔥
