5368958
Alternator
Cummins®

Introduction

The Cummins 5368958 Alternator is designed for commercial trucks, playing a role in generating and regulating electrical power within the vehicle’s electrical system. This ensures the operational integrity of the truck’s electrical components and maintains battery charge during operation ¹.

Basic Concepts of Alternators

An alternator converts mechanical energy into electrical energy, generating alternating current (AC) that is converted into direct current (DC) to charge the battery and power electrical components. It maintains a consistent voltage level for efficient operation of all electrical systems ².

Purpose of the 5368958 Alternator

This Cummins part is engineered to meet the demanding requirements of commercial trucks. It charges the vehicle’s battery while the engine is running and provides electrical power to operate the truck’s various electrical systems, including lighting, instrumentation, and accessories. Its robust design ensures reliable performance under heavy-duty conditions ³.

Key Features

The 5368958 Alternator features high-quality materials for resistance to wear and corrosion. It is built with a durable housing and precision-engineered internal components. Advanced technologies such as integrated voltage regulation help maintain a stable output voltage under varying load conditions ¹.

Benefits

Using the 5368958 Alternator offers improved reliability, consistent performance under demanding conditions, and efficiency in power generation with minimal energy loss. Its durability ensures a longer service life, reducing the need for frequent replacements and maintenance ².

Installation Considerations

Proper installation of the 5368958 Alternator requires adherence to manufacturer guidelines, including verifying belt tension, securing mounting brackets, and ensuring correct electrical connections. This helps prevent issues such as inefficient charging or electrical malfunctions ³.

Maintenance Tips

Regular maintenance of the 5368958 Alternator includes inspecting for wear or damage, cleaning the exterior, and testing the electrical output to ensure it meets specifications. This helps identify potential issues before they lead to more significant problems, contributing to the alternator’s longevity and reliable performance ¹.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Common issues with the 5368958 Alternator may include insufficient charging, unusual noises, or electrical malfunctions. Troubleshooting involves checking electrical connections, inspecting the drive belt, and testing the alternator’s output voltage. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent more severe problems ².

Cummins Corporation Overview

Cummins Corporation is known for its commitment to quality and innovation in manufacturing automotive components. The company’s history of producing reliable and high-performance parts underscores its position as a leader in the industry, dedicated to meeting the needs of commercial vehicle operators with durable and efficient solutions ³.

Compatibility

The 5368958 Alternator is compatible with various Cummins engines, including:

• B6.7 CM2670
• B164C
• QSB6.7 CM850 (CM2850)
• QSB7 CM2880 B117

This compatibility ensures consistent and efficient power generation across different engine models, enhancing overall performance and reliability ¹.

Role in Engine Systems

The 5368958 Alternator is integral to the engine system, generating electrical power to sustain the vehicle’s electrical systems while the engine is running. It interacts with several key components to ensure efficient and reliable performance ².

Interaction with the Engine

The alternator is driven by a belt connected to the engine’s crankshaft. As the engine runs, the crankshaft’s rotation is transferred to the alternator via this belt, enabling it to generate electricity ³.

Electrical System Integration

The generated electricity is distributed throughout the vehicle’s electrical system. The alternator supplies power to the battery, ensuring it remains charged. This charged battery provides the necessary electrical energy to start the engine and power other electrical components when the engine is not running ¹.

Regulation and Control

The alternator’s output is regulated by the voltage regulator, ensuring a consistent voltage level is maintained across the electrical system. This regulation is vital for the proper functioning of sensitive electronic components, such as the engine control unit (ECU) and various sensors ².

Cooling System Interaction

Efficient operation of the alternator depends on adequate cooling. It is equipped with a cooling fan or positioned to allow airflow from the engine’s cooling system to dissipate heat, preventing overheating and ensuring longevity ³.

Accessory Drive Belt System

The alternator is part of the accessory drive belt system, which may also include components like the power steering pump, air conditioning compressor, and water pump. The efficient operation of this system depends on the proper tension and condition of the drive belt, ensuring all accessories, including the alternator, function correctly ¹.

Battery and Starting System

The alternator plays a supporting role in the starting system by recharging the battery after the vehicle has been started. This recharge process ensures that the battery maintains sufficient power for future starts and for operating electrical components when the engine is off ².

Conclusion

The Cummins 5368958 Alternator is a key component that interacts with various parts of the engine system to ensure the vehicle’s electrical needs are met, supporting both the engine’s operation and the vehicle’s electrical systems. Its robust design, advanced features, and compatibility with a range of Cummins engines make it a reliable choice for commercial truck applications ³.