3408296
Cam Follower Lever
Cummins®

Introduction

The Cummins 3408296 Cam Follower Lever is a component designed for use in heavy-duty truck engines. It plays a role in the engine’s valve train, contributing to the overall operation and performance of the truck. Understanding its purpose and significance is key to appreciating its role in maintaining engine efficiency and reliability.

Basic Concepts of Cam Follower Levers

A Cam Follower Lever is a mechanical component that interacts with the camshaft in an engine. Its general function is to translate the rotational motion of the camshaft into linear motion, which is then used to open and close the engine’s valves at precise intervals. This interaction is crucial for the proper timing of the valve events, which in turn affects the engine’s performance and efficiency ¹.

Operation of the 3408296 Cam Follower Lever

The 3408296 operates by engaging with the camshaft lobes. As the camshaft rotates, the lobes push against the cam follower lever, causing it to pivot and actuate the valves. This mechanism ensures that the valves open and close in sync with the engine’s cycles, allowing for the intake and exhaust of gases necessary for combustion.

Purpose and Role in Truck Operation

In the context of a truck engine, the 3408296 plays a role in ensuring the efficient operation of the valve train. By accurately translating the camshaft’s motion to the valves, it contributes to the engine’s performance, fuel efficiency, and reliability. Its design and function are tailored to withstand the demanding conditions of heavy-duty truck operation.

Key Features

The 3408296 is characterized by its robust material composition and precise design elements. These features are intended to enhance its durability and performance under the high stress and temperatures encountered in heavy-duty truck engines. The lever’s unique characteristics are designed to provide reliable operation and contribute to the engine’s overall efficiency.

Benefits

The benefits of the 3408296 include improved engine efficiency and durability. Its design allows for precise valve actuation, which can lead to better engine performance. Additionally, the lever’s construction is aimed at providing longevity and resistance to wear, offering advantages over alternative components in terms of reliability and maintenance requirements.

Installation and Integration

Proper installation of the 3408296 into a truck engine requires adherence to specific guidelines and considerations. This includes ensuring that the lever is correctly aligned with the camshaft and that all connections are secure. Special instructions may be provided to facilitate a smooth integration process, ensuring the lever functions as intended within the engine system.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Common issues with the 3408296 may include wear, misalignment, or failure to actuate the valves properly. Troubleshooting steps may involve inspecting the lever for signs of damage, ensuring proper alignment with the camshaft, and checking for any obstructions or debris that could affect its operation. Solutions may range from adjustments to replacement, depending on the issue identified.

Maintenance Tips

Regular maintenance of the 3408296 is recommended to ensure optimal performance and longevity. This includes periodic inspection for wear or damage, cleaning to remove any buildup that could affect operation, and lubrication as necessary. Adhering to manufacturer-recommended inspection intervals and care procedures can help maintain the lever’s function and contribute to the engine’s overall reliability.

About Cummins

Cummins Inc. is a global power leader that designs, manufactures, and distributes a wide range of power solutions, including engines, filtration, and emissions control technologies. With a history of innovation and a strong reputation in the automotive and heavy-duty truck industry, Cummins is known for its commitment to quality, performance, and customer satisfaction. The company’s product range is designed to meet the demanding requirements of various applications, from on-highway to off-highway and industrial uses.

Cummins Cam Follower Lever 3408296 in Engine Applications

The Cummins Cam Follower Lever 3408296 is a critical component in several engine models, ensuring smooth and reliable engine operation. This part is integral to the engine’s valve train system, where it interacts with the camshaft to maintain proper valve timing and function.

QSK19 CM500 Engine

In the QSK19 CM500 engine, the Cam Follower Lever 3408296 plays a pivotal role in the valve train mechanism. This engine is known for its robust design and high performance, often used in heavy-duty applications such as marine and industrial settings. The lever ensures that the valves open and close at the correct times, which is essential for the engine’s efficiency and longevity.

Grouping of Engines

The Cummins Cam Follower Lever 3408296 is also compatible with other engines within the Cummins portfolio, particularly those that share similar design principles and valve train configurations. These engines benefit from the precision and reliability that this part provides, ensuring consistent performance across various applications.

Role of Part 3408296 Cam Follower Lever in Engine Systems

The Cam Follower Lever, identified by part number 3408296, is an integral component in the orchestration of various engine systems. It interfaces directly with the Cylinder and the Block, facilitating the transfer of motion from the camshaft to the valve train. This interaction is essential for the precise timing of valve operations, which in turn affects the engine’s performance and efficiency.

In the context of the Short Block Kit, the Cam Follower Lever works in conjunction with other components to ensure the smooth operation of the engine’s internal mechanisms. It plays a significant role in the Cam Follower Top Level Assembly Lever, where it contributes to the accurate tracking of the camshaft’s profile.

Moreover, the Cam Follower Lever is a key element in the Service Coupling 2008 Assembly and the Service Coupling 2009 Assembly. In these assemblies, it aids in the distribution of forces and the maintenance of alignment between moving parts, which is vital for the durability and reliability of the engine.

The integration of the Cam Follower Lever within these systems underscores its importance in the engine’s operation. It ensures that the valve train responds effectively to the camshaft’s commands, which is fundamental for the engine’s combustion process and overall functionality.

Conclusion

The Cummins 3408296 Cam Follower Lever is a vital component in heavy-duty truck engines, ensuring precise valve actuation and contributing to engine efficiency and reliability. Its robust design and precise operation make it a critical part of the engine’s valve train system, facilitating the smooth and reliable operation of the engine across various applications.