EGR deleted, do these bolts need to be reinstalled?

[SAP2018]

I finally got around to physically deleting the EGR cooler assembly on Saturday, it went pretty smooth but need to make sure if these two bolts need to be reinstalled or can they be left out? It’s the bottom (2) 15mm bolts attaching the EGR cooler to the engine block.

Thanks in advance.

 

[Mikey-KE7LBB]

I have the same holes on my '09 and they are not tapped. Perhaps, this was an update to the head to prevent EGR cooler from cracking?? If so, no worries since EGR cooler is no longer there.

 

[Jim W]

Just don't junk the hardware or EGR cooler. Someone may want to reinstall them when you sell the truck! if you ever do!

I have all of my 2008 emission hardware in my garage attic locked away so, it is safe from thieves. There was a time when thieves where cutting off the DPF for scrap value so, I removed it.

 

[Wiredawg]

Whenever I remove something from a truck that is bolted on, I put antiseize on it and tighten it back in. I have the bolt that was in it and I protect the threads in the truck.

Just the other option presented.

Cheers, Ron

 

[Wiredawg]

So, Sap2018 what did you end up doing with the bolts?
Ron

 

[SAP2018]

So, Sap2018 what did you end up doing with the bolts?
Ron

I checked the holes with a small Allen wrench, about 1/2” deep and just stop, no open hole.

I stored the two bolts that bolt the cooler to the block with the rest of the EGR cooler assembly. Looks cleaner without them.