5288991
Thermostat
Cummins®

Introduction

The Cummins 5288991 Thermostat is a component designed for use in heavy-duty trucks, specifically tailored to regulate engine temperature. Its purpose is to maintain optimal operating conditions for the engine, ensuring efficiency and longevity. By controlling the flow of coolant through the engine, this thermostat plays a role in the overall performance and reliability of heavy-duty truck engines.

Basic Concepts of a Thermostat

A thermostat is a device that senses the temperature of a fluid, in this case, the engine coolant, and controls the flow of this fluid to maintain a stable temperature within the engine. It operates based on the principle of thermal expansion, where a wax pellet inside the thermostat expands when heated, opening a valve to allow coolant to flow through the engine. Conversely, when the engine cools down, the wax pellet contracts, closing the valve and restricting coolant flow ¹.

Purpose of the Cummins 5288991 Thermostat

This Cummins part is specifically engineered to maintain the engine’s optimal operating temperature. By regulating the flow of coolant, it ensures the engine reaches its operating temperature quickly and maintains it under various driving conditions. This regulation contributes to efficient engine operation, fuel economy, and preventing engine damage from overheating or underheating ².

Key Features

The Cummins 5288991 Thermostat is characterized by its robust design and high-quality materials, which contribute to its durability and performance. It features a precision-machined housing that ensures a secure fit within the engine system. The thermostat utilizes a wax pellet mechanism for accurate temperature control and is constructed from materials resistant to corrosion and thermal stress, enhancing its longevity in demanding environments ³.

Benefits of Using the Cummins 5288991 Thermostat

Utilizing this thermostat offers several advantages. It contributes to improved engine efficiency by ensuring the engine operates within its optimal temperature range. This results in better fuel economy and reduced emissions. Additionally, by maintaining consistent engine temperature, it helps prolong engine life and provides reliable temperature regulation under varying operating conditions, from idle to high-load scenarios ⁴.

Installation and Compatibility

Proper installation of the Cummins 5288991 Thermostat is important for its effective operation. It should be installed according to the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure a secure and effective fit within the engine system. Specific requirements may include the use of a gasket to ensure a proper seal and the orientation of the thermostat within the housing to allow for optimal coolant flow.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Routine maintenance of the Cummins 5288991 Thermostat involves periodic inspection for signs of wear or damage and ensuring it operates within the specified temperature range. Common issues such as temperature irregularities or thermostat failure can often be addressed by cleaning the thermostat housing and ensuring the thermostat is correctly installed. In cases of failure, replacement with a genuine Cummins part is recommended to maintain engine performance and reliability.

Performance in Various Conditions

The Cummins 5288991 Thermostat is designed to perform reliably under a wide range of operating conditions. Whether facing extreme temperatures, heavy loads, or varying driving scenarios, it maintains consistent engine temperature, demonstrating its effectiveness and reliability. This ensures the engine operates efficiently and remains protected from damage due to temperature extremes.

Cummins Corporation Overview

Cummins Inc. is a global power leader that designs, manufactures, and distributes a wide range of power solutions, including engines, filtration, and power generation products. With a history of innovation and quality, Cummins has established a strong reputation within the automotive and heavy-duty truck industries. Its commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction is reflected in the performance and reliability of its products, including the Cummins 5288991 Thermostat.

Thermostat 5288991 Compatibility with Cummins Engines

The thermostat part number 5288991, manufactured by Cummins, is designed to fit a variety of their engine models. This part is crucial for maintaining optimal engine temperature by regulating the flow of coolant. Below is a detailed overview of the compatibility of this thermostat with various Cummins engines:

ISC Series

• ISC CM2150
• ISC8.3 CM2250

The ISC series engines, including the ISC CM2150 and ISC8.3 CM2250, are equipped with the thermostat 5288991. This part ensures that the engine operates within its ideal temperature range, enhancing performance and longevity.

ISL Series

• ISL CM2150
• ISL G CM2180
• ISL9 CM2250

The ISL series engines, such as the ISL CM2150, ISL G CM2180, and ISL9 CM2250, also utilize the thermostat 5288991. This compatibility ensures that these engines maintain efficient thermal management, which is critical for their operation.

QSC/QSL Series

• QSC9 CM2250/QSL9 CM2250
• QSL9 CM2250
• QSL9 CM2350 L102
• QSL9 G CM558

The QSC/QSL series engines, including the QSC9 CM2250/QSL9 CM2250, QSL9 CM2250, QSL9 CM2350 L102, and QSL9 G CM558, are compatible with the thermostat 5288991. This part is essential for these engines to regulate their coolant flow effectively, ensuring they run smoothly and efficiently.

By using the thermostat 5288991, these Cummins engines can maintain their optimal operating temperatures, which is vital for their performance and durability.

Role of Part 5288991 Thermostat in Engine Systems

The part 5288991 thermostat is a component in maintaining the optimal operating temperature of the engine. It works in conjunction with several other components to ensure efficient engine performance and longevity.

Interaction with the Engine Oil Cooler

The engine oil cooler is a vital component that helps regulate the temperature of the engine oil. The oil cooler works by transferring excess heat from the oil to the surrounding air or coolant, depending on the design. The thermostat, part 5288991, plays a role in this process by controlling the flow of coolant through the engine.

When the engine is cold, the thermostat remains closed, preventing coolant from circulating through the engine and oil cooler. This allows the engine to warm up quickly. Once the engine reaches the optimal operating temperature, the thermostat opens, allowing coolant to flow through the engine and the oil cooler. This regulated flow ensures that the engine oil remains at an optimal temperature, enhancing lubrication and reducing wear on engine components.

In summary, the part 5288991 thermostat ensures that both the engine and the oil cooler operate within their designed temperature ranges, contributing to overall engine efficiency and reliability.

Conclusion

The Cummins 5288991 Thermostat is a critical component for maintaining the optimal operating temperature of heavy-duty truck engines. Its robust design, precise temperature control, and compatibility with various Cummins engine models make it an essential part for ensuring engine efficiency, longevity, and reliability. Proper installation, maintenance, and understanding of its role within the engine system are key to maximizing the benefits of this thermostat.