Cummins recently announced in a newsletter to service locations they are discontinuing the sale of its ReCon diesel particulate filters. This ends the purchase with core exchange process for the consumer. In an article posted by HDT, Cummins explains how a decline in eligible cores returned by their customer has impacted the ability to efficiently sustain the program. “Of the core that is still being returned, we are seeing a deteriorating quality that is not conducive for remanufacturing,” according to the Cummins Serviceline Newsletter.
One intriguing feature of an exchange program is having a diesel particulate filter readily available for installation. This ultimately reduces vehicle downtime for the end user compared to overnight filter cleanings. There is also a cost savings when purchasing a reconditioned filter compared to new OE replacement options. And if your filter is in good condition you can receive full core credit as well. The problem is this is not always the case.
In working with customers across the country we have heard two common concerns regarding a filter exchange program. The first issue has to do with the core credit customers receive, or don’t receive. Many share stories where they received 50% or less of the core charge which drives replacement costs up. The second issue is purchasing a filter that has been in service, but no maintenance records are available. The OE recommends replacing the filter with another exchange unit when the next cleaning is due. This too increases costs over the life of your truck especially if you do not receive full core credit.
The good news is that with EcoClean technology you can still use reconditioned or cleaned filters. Here are some basic guidelines of how the program works. A program that has been implemented by regional and national fleets with the help of authorized cleaning centers around the country.
- Seed the program (if needed) with a new, aftermarket DPF with no core charge at special pricing.
- When a DPF needs to be cleaned simply take the new or clean filter off the shelf and install in the truck.
- Send dirty filter to an authorized cleaning center.
- Filter is aqueous cleaned (similar method to OE), sent to customer and placed on the shelf ready for installation.
- Clean filters can be returned with clamps, gaskets & sensors if desired.
- If a filter needs to be replaced, aftermarket options are available at special pricing.
Everything is ready to go, when you need it, reducing end user down time.
We invite you to read the complete article that discusses potential changes with the Cummins ReCon DPF program.
Source: Jim Park, “Cummins Discontinues ReCon DPF Program,” TruckingInfo.com, Heavy Duty Trucking, Bobit Business Media, January 5, 2021