If your Cummins-powered truck is showing signs of a clogged Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)—such as poor fuel economy, loss of power, or fault codes like SPN 3719—it’s time for a regen. A forced DPF regeneration is a safe, controlled method of burning off excess soot and restoring proper engine function. In this guide, DieselScanners.com breaks down the regen process step-by-step using professional-grade diagnostic software.
What is a DPF Regen?
A DPF regeneration is the process of increasing the exhaust temperature to burn off soot and ash that accumulate in the diesel particulate filter. Cummins engines automatically perform passive regens while driving, but sometimes soot levels become too high—triggering the need for a manual or forced regen via diagnostic software.
When to Perform a Forced Regen
You may need to perform a regen if you see:
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Active fault codes related to aftertreatment
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Reduced engine power mode (derate)
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Excessive soot load (monitored in diagnostic software)
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DPF lights or wrench icons on the dashboard
Tools Needed
To perform a regen on a Cummins engine, you’ll need:
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A rugged diagnostic laptop from DieselScanners.com
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A Nexiq USB-Link 3 or other RP1210A-compliant adapter
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Diesel Tech or Universal Diag software (included in our kits)
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Stable internet connection (for remote support, if needed)
Step-by-Step: How to Perform a DPF Regen on a Cummins Engine
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Connect Diagnostic Equipment
Plug the USB-Link adapter into your truck’s diagnostic port (typically 9-pin). Connect the other end to your DieselScanners laptop. -
Launch Software
Open the Diesel Tech or Universal Diag software. Select your Cummins engine model and allow the software to connect to the ECM. -
Scan for Fault Codes
Before starting a regen, scan for active fault codes. If any critical issues exist (like DEF pump failure), resolve them first. -
Access Aftertreatment Controls
Navigate to the Aftertreatment or DPF Regen section in the software dashboard. -
Select “Forced Regeneration”
Choose the forced regen option. Follow on-screen prompts to confirm engine temperature and fuel level are safe for regen. -
Monitor Parameters
During regen, monitor exhaust temperatures, DPF differential pressure, and regen duration. This process usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. -
Completion & Post Checks
When the regen completes, verify that soot levels are reduced and no new fault codes appear. Clear any inactive codes.
Safety Tips
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Always perform regens in a well-ventilated area
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Keep the vehicle in neutral with the parking brake engaged
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Never leave the truck unattended during the process
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Do not interrupt the process once it has begun
Final Thoughts
With the right diagnostic tools, a forced DPF regen is fast, easy, and effective. Don’t let soot buildup derail your engine performance or cause downtime. At DieselScanners.com, we provide complete plug-and-play laptop kits that allow you to take control of your diesel engine’s health—without relying on a shop visit.
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