A Tdi Dpf Delete can be expensive, with dealerships often quoting exorbitant prices. This article details a budget-friendly DIY DPF delete solution, implemented on a 2009 TDI with over 200,000 miles. This “poor man’s delete” involved welding the DPF flange shut and rerouting the exhaust.
DIY DPF Delete Process
The process began with a $200 MIG welder. The existing DPF flange was reused, welded closed, and the exhaust pipe was rerouted to exit under the car. All exhaust sensors, including the wideband, NOx sensor, and exhaust flap, remained in place. Additionally, the MAF sensor, EGR cooler connector, and EGR valve were unplugged.
This simple modification resulted in significant performance improvement compared to when the check engine light was illuminated due to the clogged DPF. Fuel economy remained impressive, achieving around 45 mpg at 80 mph, even three years after the delete with the car now exceeding 262,000 miles.
Challenges and Solutions
This DIY DPF delete presented some challenges. The cooling fans run constantly while the engine is on and continue to operate for 5-10 minutes after the engine is shut off. This constant fan operation prevents the engine from reaching operating temperature in cold weather (below 31°F), making it difficult to stay warm at idle.
A temporary solution for the cold weather issue was to disconnect the lead cooling fan power line from the fuse box during winter months. Alternatively, installing a toggle or breaker switch could provide more convenient control. Even with the fans running constantly in warmer weather (up to 65°F), no overheating issues were encountered.
Conclusion
While this “poor man’s DPF delete” lacks the sophistication of professional delete kits and tunes, it offers a functional and cost-effective solution for a clogged DPF. This method, while effective in this specific instance, may not be suitable for all vehicles or situations. Remember that tampering with emissions systems may have legal ramifications depending on your location. This information is shared for educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as professional advice.
