Can you do a mechanical DOD delete without the ECM DOD delete?
It will run, but it isn't a finished job. With the AFM hardware removed, the computer is still programmed to use AFM. That usually sets trouble codes and can put the engine in a reduced-power mode.
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Short-term workaround (Speedway's suggestion until you can get it tuned): leave the AFM solenoid pack electrically connected — even with a new valley cover you can tuck the original solenoid assembly in the valley or mount it outside — and use a plug-in AFM disabler so the computer never tries to deactivate cylinders. The computer sees what it expects, and the disabler keeps it in V8 mode.
The proper fix is a tune. PCM must be recalibrated to stop commanding deactivation; aftermarket cams also need idle, fuel, spark and torque-model changes. With HP Tuners it's a checkbox to turn AFM off, and since a delete almost always includes a different cam, you'll want a full tune anyway.
No. If you remove the AFM/DOD hardware, the ECM must also have the AFM/DOD calibration turned off to match, or you'll get persistent codes and drivability problems. We treat the delete kit and the tune as one job. If you see odd bank-to-bank behavior after a delete, look at clogged cats (P0420/P0430), O2 sensors or the ECM itself before blaming the delete hardware.
Check this first:
- Line up the ECM tune before the hardware goes in
- Scan for existing codes such as P0420/P0430 before the delete so you know what was there already
Careful: Running non-AFM hardware on an AFM-enabled calibration will cause codes and drivability issues.
Based on what we've seen work across our own builds, our friends' builds and the wider LS community, reviewed by our lead shop tuner (over 20 years of LS and LT tuning experience). Every combination is different, so use at your own risk and check our safe tuning limits before any wide-open pass.
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Check this first
- Line up the ECM tune before the hardware goes in
- Scan for existing codes such as P0420/P0430 before the delete so you know what was there already
Try this, then this
- Line up the tune first
- Install hardware
- Verify AFM off and no codes
How you know it's fixed
- AFM disabled in the calibration, no AFM codes, drivability clean
Still not fixed?
- If odd bank behavior persists, check cats, O2 sensors and the ECM — not the delete hardware
Time and cost: A tune is part of the delete budget, not an afterthought