3081688
Water Bypass Tube
Cummins®

Introduction

The Cummins 3081688 Water Bypass Tube is designed to facilitate the efficient operation of the cooling system in heavy-duty trucks. It manages the flow of coolant within the engine, ensuring optimal operating temperature under various conditions.

Basic Concepts of Water Bypass Tubes

A Water Bypass Tube is integral to the engine cooling system, redirecting coolant flow when the thermostat is closed. This prevents overheating by allowing coolant to bypass the radiator and return to the engine, maintaining the engine’s temperature within a specified range for efficiency and longevity ¹.

Purpose of the 3081688 Water Bypass Tube

The specific role of this Cummins part is to facilitate the redirection of coolant flow. When the engine is cold, the thermostat remains closed, and the bypass tube allows coolant to circulate within the engine block without passing through the radiator. This helps the engine reach its optimal operating temperature more quickly ².

Key Features

This part is constructed from durable materials to withstand high temperatures and pressures within the engine cooling system. Its design includes precise fittings and connections to ensure a secure and leak-free installation. It may feature reinforced sections to enhance durability and performance under demanding conditions ³.

Benefits

Using this part offers several benefits. It contributes to improved engine efficiency by ensuring the engine operates at the optimal temperature, leading to enhanced performance and fuel efficiency. Its robust construction and design elements contribute to its longevity and reliability, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

Installation Process

Installing the 3081688 requires careful attention to detail. Preparatory steps include ensuring the engine is cool and the cooling system is drained. The old tube should be removed, and any gaskets or seals should be replaced. The new tube is then installed, ensuring all connections are secure and there are no leaks. Tools required may include wrenches, gasket scrapers, and a coolant pressure tester.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Regular maintenance of this part involves inspecting it for signs of wear or damage during routine engine checks. Common issues may include leaks or blockages, which can be addressed by tightening connections or cleaning the tube. If the tube is damaged, it should be replaced to prevent coolant loss and ensure the engine cooling system operates efficiently.

Performance Impact

This part plays a role in the engine cooling system by helping to maintain optimal engine temperature. This contributes to the overall performance and efficiency of the truck’s engine, ensuring it operates smoothly under various conditions.

About Cummins

Cummins Inc. is a global power leader that designs, manufactures, and distributes engines, filtration, and power generation products. With a history spanning over a century, Cummins is renowned for its diesel engines and related components, which are used in a wide range of applications, from heavy-duty trucks to industrial equipment. The company is committed to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction, making it a trusted name in the automotive industry.

Compatibility with Cummins Engines

The Water Bypass Tube, identified by the part number 3081688, is a component in the cooling system of various Cummins engines. This part is designed to facilitate the efficient flow of coolant, ensuring optimal engine performance and longevity.

K19 Series

• K19
• KTA19GC
• KTA19GC CM558

This part is integral to the K19 series engines, including the K19, KTA19GC, and KTA19GC CM558. These engines benefit from the precise routing of coolant that the bypass tube provides, enhancing thermal efficiency and reducing the risk of overheating.

QSK19 Series

• QSK19 CM2350 K114
• QSK19 CM2350 K144G
• QSK19 CM500
• QSK19 CM850 MCRS
• QSK19G

The QSK19 series engines, such as the QSK19 CM2350 K114, QSK19 CM2350 K144G, QSK19 CM500, QSK19 CM850 MCRS, and QSK19G, also utilize the Water Bypass Tube. This part ensures that the coolant bypasses certain sections of the engine, maintaining a balanced temperature and preventing potential damage from overheating. The design of the bypass tube is tailored to fit the specific architecture of these engines, ensuring seamless integration and reliable performance.

Role in Engine Systems

This part is an essential component in the thermal management of engine systems. It works in conjunction with several key components to ensure efficient operation and longevity of the engine.

Integration with Thermostat Housing

The Water Bypass Tube is strategically positioned to interact with the thermostat housing. Its primary function is to regulate the flow of coolant when the thermostat is closed. This ensures that a portion of the coolant bypasses the radiator and returns to the engine, maintaining optimal operating temperatures and preventing overheating.

Interaction with Torque Converter Oil Cooler

In systems equipped with a torque converter oil cooler, this part plays a role in maintaining the correct temperature of the transmission fluid. By regulating the coolant flow, it helps in dissipating heat from the transmission, ensuring smooth and efficient operation of the torque converter.

Plumbing and Coolant Flow

This part is integral to the plumbing of the engine’s cooling system. It ensures that coolant circulates effectively, even when the thermostat is not fully open. This consistent flow is vital for dissipating heat generated by the engine, protecting sensitive components from thermal damage.

Coordination with Thermostat

The relationship between the Water Bypass Tube and the thermostat is symbiotic. When the engine is cold, the thermostat remains closed, directing coolant through the bypass tube. As the engine warms up, the thermostat opens, allowing coolant to flow through the radiator. The Water Bypass Tube ensures a seamless transition in coolant flow, contributing to stable engine temperatures.

Housing and Structural Support

The Water Bypass Tube is often housed within the thermostat housing or a dedicated housing unit. This structural support not only protects the tube but also ensures it is correctly aligned with other components, facilitating efficient coolant flow and thermal management.

Conclusion

The Water Bypass Tube (part 3081688) is a vital component that enhances the functionality of the engine’s cooling system by ensuring consistent coolant flow and temperature regulation, working in harmony with the thermostat, torque converter oil cooler, and other related components.