The Caterpillar 3406E engine, a predecessor to the C15 and C16, had a notable variant: the Cat 6ts Engine. While Caterpillar exited the on-highway truck engine market in 2010, understanding these engines remains crucial for maintenance and repairs. This article delves into the CAT 6TS engine, clarifying its specifications, production years, and key features.
Identifying the CAT 6TS Engine
Caterpillar organizes engine information by application, model, and a crucial identifier: the engine prefix. The prefix, the first three characters of the engine serial number, unlocks vital details. For instance, “6TS” signifies a specific 3406E configuration. However, Caterpillar hasn’t publicly documented which truck models used specific prefixes like 6TS. This article aims to bridge that information gap.
Production Years, Model Years, and Emission Years: Understanding the Differences
Navigating Caterpillar engine information requires understanding the distinction between production, model, and emission years. Trucks produced in a particular year often carry the next year’s model designation. For example, a March 2020 production might be a 2021 model year. Further complicating matters, emission years, tied to EPA regulations implemented since 2004, can lag behind production and model years. Deciphering a VIN provides the model year, not necessarily the production or emission year.
The CAT 6TS Engine within the 3406E Family
The 3406E engine eventually evolved into the C15 and the short-lived C16 around 2000. The C16 faced challenges meeting 2004 emission standards, leading to its discontinuation. The C15 transformed into the C15 ACERT, incorporating technology to comply with stricter regulations. The 6TS engine represents a specific iteration within the 3406E lineage. It’s closely related to the 5EK, with a key difference: the 6TS features steel top pistons, while the 5EK utilizes aluminum. This distinction impacts performance and durability.
CAT 6TS Engine Specifications
The CAT 6TS, a 14.6L engine, was manufactured between January 1997 and August 1998, with approximately 27,800 units produced. This places it within the 1993-1997 model year range for the 3406E. Understanding this timeframe assists in identifying compatible parts and service information.
Finding Information on CAT 6TS Engines
Locating accurate information on older CAT engines like the 6TS can be challenging. Resources like Diesel Laptops offer comprehensive repair information, including fault codes, removal and replacement guides, torque specs, wiring diagrams, and component locators. Specialized diagnostic tools, ranging from handheld code readers to dealer-level equipment, are also essential for effective troubleshooting and maintenance.
Conclusion
The CAT 6TS engine, while no longer in production for on-highway trucks, remains a significant part of Caterpillar’s engine history. This article provided crucial information regarding its identification, production timeline, key features, and where to find further resources for maintenance and repair. Understanding the nuances of Caterpillar’s engine classification system, especially the engine prefix, is essential for anyone working with these powerful machines.
