Is a 5.9 Grid Heater Delete Actually Worth It?

If you're looking to squeeze every bit of efficiency out of your Cummins, doing a 5.9 grid heater delete is likely one of the first things people will suggest in the forums. It's a classic "weekend warrior" modification that promises better airflow, lower exhaust gas temperatures (EGTs), and a cleaner engine bay. But, like anything in the diesel world, there's always a trade-off. Before you go tearing into your intake manifold, it's worth looking at why that heating element is there in the first place and what happens once it's gone. ...

April 25, 2026 · 7 min · Rothman Fidel