This refers to aftermarket components and procedures designed to remove or bypass emission control systems on vehicles equipped with a specific diesel engine. These systems often include the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR), Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems. An example would be a package containing replacement pipes, electronic modules, and software designed to disable these systems in a particular model year truck.
The perceived benefits often cited by proponents include improved fuel economy, increased horsepower and torque, and reduced maintenance costs associated with failing emission control components. However, these modifications typically result in increased emissions and may violate federal and state environmental regulations. Historically, the desire for these modifications has stemmed from dissatisfaction with the performance, reliability, and cost of maintaining complex emission systems.