Hello group,
Well, I think it may be "that time". I have a '14 6.7L, completely stock, with just under 100k miles and I got the dreaded "P20BA Reductant Heater "A" Control Performance" code. So now it's decision time. Do I delete or repair? I've heard pros and cons for both. Replacing the DEF pump reservoir seems pretty straight forward and costs about $360 (+tax/shipping) and I'm confident I can do it myself. Ok, but how long 'til I have to do it again?

Now the million dollar question. Time to delete? (Are we allowed to talk about such taboo things here?) I live in rural Tennessee, and my county has no emission checks required for registration, so I'm not worried about the legality. I don't plan on selling the truck anytime soon. A couple things that do concern me about it though:

1. I'm not a kid...I DO NOT want the truck to sound stupid. No whistle, no obnoxious noise, absolutely do not want to roll coal. EVER. I'd like it to sound stock. (No offense to those who like that, it's just not for me)
2. I'm happy with the stock performance. I don't need a bunch of extra HP. (Maybe just a "little" when towing)
3. I would like a little more MPG, but I'm also not mad about what I get in the stock config.
4. Don't really need or want a big tuner up on the dash...I like things simple. I get it that to delete, a tuner is necessary...unless there's some one-time flash we can do?
5. MOST IMPORTANT: I don't want any issues from deleting. No mystery codes or gremlins to chase. No reduced life from extra HP or performance mods. I just want the truck to be reliable and last as long as it possibly can.

So that being said, is there an easy way to delete the DPF and/or EGR without compromising reliability, and not making it sound dumb (keep stock muffler)? If so, who offers a good DIY kit that doesn't break the bank and is easyish to install? I'm considering something like this one from diesel dudes, but I don't know if there's a better option? Open to suggestions or recommendations for the best way to go about this....or should I just keep it stock and replace the DEF heater?

https://thedieseldudes.com/collectio...id=21k7_pr3fv&

 

Keeping it stock should be free. I think the def heater is warranted for 11 years 120,000 miles or something like that. Just had it replaced under warranty on my 16 a few weeks back.

 

I saw that...18M01 right? I thought it reads that it's only for Kentucky built trucks? Mine was built in Canada so I doubt it applies. I'll definitely be calling the dealer to make sure though. I'm sure they'll find a way to dodge the bill...I like my Fords but have zero faith in the dealers. Even if they do cover it, it'll probably take them two months.

https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/20...37151-9999.pdf

 

I'm not sure if your truck would be covered. I would assume it would cover the def heaters in cold weather climates as that's what there for. But i wouldn't put it past ford to not cover it. My replacement took a couple weeks to schedule. You can drive in the mean time. It won't hurt it. Might just notice a decrease in power only when towing heavy.

 

So good news, I talked to my local dealer today, and my truck is indeed covered by 18M01. So next month they’ll get me in to get the DEF heater taken care of. Guess I don’t have to debate about deleting just yet.