The Caterpillar 3406E diesel engine, produced from 1993 to 1999, remains a popular choice for heavy-duty applications. This guide provides a detailed overview of the 3406e Caterpillar Engine Specs, common problems, and aftermarket improvements.
Caterpillar 3406E Engine Specifications
Here’s a breakdown of the key 3406E Caterpillar engine specs:
- Fuel: Diesel
- Cubic Inch Displacement: 893
- Cylinder Bore Diameter: 5.400-5.402″ (137.16-137.211 MM)
- Stroke: 6.500″ (165.1 MM)
- Cylinder Configuration: Inline 6 (L6)
- Engine Comments: 3406E truck, Overhead Cam (OHC), 24 Valve
Caterpillar 3406E Serial Numbers and Casting Numbers
Identifying the correct parts for your 3406E engine requires knowing its serial and casting numbers.
ESN Prefixes:
- 1LW
- 2WS
- 5DS
- 5EK
- 6TS
Casting Numbers:
| Component | Casting Number |
|---|---|
| Camshaft | 152-7648 |
| Camshaft | 136-7329 |
| Crankshaft | 4P9121 |
| Flywheel | 4W6707 |
| Flywheel | 7N9146 |
| Head | 4P1599 |
| Connecting Rod | 9Y6048 |
| Connecting Rod | 6N3911 |
| Connecting Rod | 7E5996 |
| Connecting Rod | 8N1726 |
| Connecting Rod | 9Y6054 |
| Connecting Rod | 1608178 |
| Connecting Rod | 7N3229 |
| Connecting Rod | 8N1728 |
Common Caterpillar 3406E Failures
While renowned for reliability, the 3406E has some common issues:
- Crankshaft Breakage: Engines with a 5EK serial number prefix experienced crankshaft failures, often at journals 1 and 6.
- Oil Leaks: Common leaks originated from rear structures, the flywheel housing, and rubber plugs used for oil level checks.
- Other Issues: Injector problems (fuel return line), camshaft and camshaft sensor issues, oil cooler failures, and exhaust manifold cracking.
Aftermarket Improvements
Aftermarket companies have addressed some of the 3406E’s shortcomings:
- Forged Steel Pistons: Stronger and more reliable than the original cast pistons.
- Pin and Roller Kits: Offer a cost-effective alternative to replacing the entire rocker arm when only pins and rollers are worn.
Caterpillar 3406E in Peterbilt and Freightliner
The 3406E engine was frequently used in Peterbilt and Freightliner trucks.
Conclusion
The Caterpillar 3406E remains a powerful and reliable engine, especially with aftermarket improvements. Understanding its specifications and potential problems is crucial for maintenance and repair. Knowing the serial and casting numbers ensures acquiring the correct parts for your engine.
