The 5.9 Cummins engine, a powerhouse known for its reliability and durability, utilizes grid heaters to assist in cold-weather starting. However, some owners opt for a grid heater delete. This modification, while seemingly simple, carries significant implications that require careful consideration. This article explores the reasons behind a grid heater delete, the potential risks involved, and viable alternatives.
Why Delete the Grid Heaters?
The primary driver behind a 5.9 Cummins grid heater delete is often a desire for simplification. Removing the grid heaters eliminates a potential point of failure, potentially saving on repair costs down the line. Some owners also believe it slightly improves engine performance, though this is often negligible and debated. Finally, a grid heater delete can slightly reduce the electrical load on the starting system.
What are the Risks of Deleting the Grid Heaters?
This is where the potential downsides become significantly more pronounced. The biggest risk associated with a grid heater delete is difficult cold-weather starting. The grid heaters are designed to pre-heat the combustion chamber, making it easier to ignite the fuel, especially in sub-freezing temperatures. Without them, starting your truck in cold weather can become significantly more challenging, potentially leading to:
- Increased wear on the starter motor: Repeated cranking puts extra strain on the starter, shortening its lifespan.
- Battery drain: Excessive cranking depletes the battery, leaving you stranded.
- Engine damage: Difficult starting can cause damage to the engine components due to prolonged cranking.
What Happens if Your Grid Heaters Fail?
A failed grid heater might lead to the symptoms already discussed—hard starting, especially in cold weather. You might also notice an unusual clicking sound or a blown fuse if there's a short circuit within the system. Unlike a deliberate delete, a failed heater will often present some warning signs and will probably be diagnosable without completely removing the grid heating element. This makes the delete a much more permanent solution that, if done incorrectly, can leave you stranded.
Are There Alternatives to Deleting the Grid Heaters?
Instead of a complete delete, consider these alternatives:
- Repairing or replacing the grid heaters: If your grid heaters are malfunctioning, repair or replacement is a far safer and more practical solution. It preserves the engine's cold-weather starting capabilities.
- Block heater installation: A block heater is an alternative pre-heating system that warms the engine coolant directly, offering more efficient cold-weather starting assistance than grid heaters alone.
Can I Bypass the Grid Heater Relay?
While you can bypass the grid heater relay, it’s essentially the same as a grid heater delete in terms of functionality and risks. You’re still disabling the grid heaters, leading to all the same potential issues with cold-weather starting. This is not a recommended solution.
Is a Grid Heater Delete Worth It?
For many, the risks associated with a grid heater delete outweigh the potential benefits. The improved simplicity and slightly reduced electrical load are minimal compared to the potential for costly repairs or even engine damage during cold starts. Unless you live in a consistently warm climate, it's generally not recommended. If you're having problems with your grid heaters, consider the alternative solutions mentioned above before resorting to deletion.
Conclusion
Deleting the grid heaters on your 5.9 Cummins engine is a modification that should be approached with caution. The potential for difficult cold-weather starting and consequential engine damage presents substantial risks. Repairing or replacing faulty grid heaters or installing a block heater are safer and more effective alternatives to maintain reliable cold-weather starting capabilities. Remember, a well-maintained 5.9 Cummins is a powerful and reliable engine; maintaining its original components is often the best approach.
