3965589
Belt Tensioner
Cummins®

AVAILABLE

Cummins®

Ships within 1-3 business days

$369.95 $440.24

This truck part is made by Cummins®. We guarantee that all of our parts are from the OEM (original equipment manufacturer), ensuring a proper fit and quality manufacturing.


DESCRIPTION

The Cummins 3965589 Belt Tensioner is a component designed for use in commercial trucks. Its purpose is to maintain the correct tension on the drive belts within the engine system, ensuring efficient operation of various engine accessories. The significance of this part lies in its contribution to the overall performance and reliability of the truck’s engine system.

Basic Concepts of Belt Tensioners

A belt tensioner is a device used in an engine system to keep the drive belts at the proper tension. It functions by automatically adjusting the tension on the belts as they stretch or wear over time. Maintaining proper belt tension is important for the efficient transfer of power from the engine to accessories such as the alternator, water pump, and air conditioning compressor. Proper tension ensures these components operate correctly and reduces the risk of belt slippage or failure 1.

Purpose of the Cummins 3965589 Belt Tensioner

The Cummins 3965589 Belt Tensioner plays a role in the operation of a truck by maintaining the correct tension on the drive belts. This ensures that the belts remain in optimal contact with the pulleys they drive, which is necessary for the efficient operation of engine accessories. By keeping the belts properly tensioned, the tensioner helps to prevent issues such as belt slippage, which can lead to decreased efficiency and potential damage to the engine or accessory components.

Key Features

The Cummins 3965589 Belt Tensioner is characterized by several key features that enhance its performance. Its design incorporates high-quality materials that are resistant to wear and corrosion, ensuring durability in demanding commercial truck environments. The tensioner is engineered to provide consistent belt tension under varying operating conditions, contributing to the reliable operation of the engine’s accessory systems. Additionally, its design allows for easy installation and maintenance, facilitating its use in a wide range of truck models.

Benefits of Using the Cummins 3965589 Belt Tensioner

Utilizing the Cummins 3965589 Belt Tensioner offers several advantages. It contributes to improved efficiency by ensuring that the drive belts operate under optimal tension, which can lead to better performance of engine accessories. Reduced wear on belts is another benefit, as proper tension minimizes the risk of belt slippage and associated wear. Furthermore, the tensioner enhances the reliability of the truck’s accessory systems by maintaining consistent belt tension, which is crucial for the uninterrupted operation of critical components 2.

Installation and Compatibility

When installing the Cummins 3965589 Belt Tensioner, it is important to follow manufacturer guidelines to ensure proper fit and function. Compatibility with various truck models should be verified to ensure the tensioner meets the specific requirements of the engine system it will be part of. Proper installation involves securing the tensioner in place and adjusting it according to the manufacturer’s specifications to achieve the correct belt tension.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Regular maintenance of the Cummins 3965589 Belt Tensioner is important for ensuring its longevity and optimal performance. This includes periodic inspections for signs of wear or damage, and ensuring that the tensioner moves freely without obstruction. Troubleshooting common issues related to belt tension may involve checking for proper belt alignment, ensuring the tensioner is not seized, and verifying that the belts are not excessively worn or damaged.

Performance and Reliability

The Cummins 3965589 Belt Tensioner is designed to deliver consistent performance and reliability under various operating conditions. Its ability to maintain proper belt tension contributes to the efficient and reliable operation of engine accessories. Empirical data and field reports indicate that the tensioner performs well in demanding commercial truck applications, supporting its reputation for durability and effectiveness 3.

Cummins: A Brief Overview

Cummins Inc. is a well-established manufacturer in the commercial truck industry, known for its commitment to quality and innovation in automotive components. With a broad product range that includes engines, filtration systems, and aftermarket parts, Cummins has built a reputation for excellence. The company’s dedication to advancing technology and improving product performance underscores its position as a leader in the industry.

Belt Tensioner 3965589 Compatibility with Cummins Engines

The Belt Tensioner part number 3965589, manufactured by Cummins, is designed to fit a variety of Cummins engines. This part is crucial for maintaining the proper tension of the engine’s serpentine belt, ensuring efficient operation of the engine’s ancillary systems.

Compatibility with Specific Engine Models

  • 4B3.9, B6.7 CM2670 B153B, ISB/ISD4.5 CM2150 B119, ISB/ISD6.7 CM2150 SN, ISBE CM2150, ISBE CM800, ISBE4 CM850, ISC CM850, ISL9 CM2150 SN, QSB6.7 CM850 (CM2850), QSB7 CM2880 B117

The Belt Tensioner 3965589 is compatible with the following engines:

  • 4B3.9
  • B6.7 CM2670 B153B
  • ISB/ISD4.5 CM2150 B119
  • ISB/ISD6.7 CM2150 SN
  • ISBE CM2150
  • ISBE CM800
  • ISBE4 CM850
  • ISC CM850
  • ISL9 CM2150 SN
  • QSB6.7 CM850 (CM2850)
  • QSB7 CM2880 B117

Grouping of Compatible Engines

The Belt Tensioner 3965589 is engineered to fit a broad range of Cummins engines, including both the older and newer models. Here is a grouping of the engines based on their series and specifications:

  • ISB/ISD Series:

    • ISB/ISD4.5 CM2150 B119
    • ISB/ISD6.7 CM2150 SN
  • ISBE Series:

    • ISBE CM2150
    • ISBE CM800
    • ISBE4 CM850
  • ISC Series:

    • ISC CM850
  • ISL Series:

    • ISL9 CM2150 SN
  • QSB Series:

    • QSB6.7 CM850 (CM2850)
    • QSB7 CM2880 B117
  • Other Models:

    • 4B3.9
    • B6.7 CM2670 B153B

This comprehensive compatibility ensures that the Belt Tensioner 3965589 can be used across a wide range of Cummins engines, providing a reliable solution for maintaining belt tension and ensuring optimal engine performance.

Understanding the Role of Part 3965589 Belt Tensioner in Engine Systems

In the orchestration of an engine’s ancillary systems, the part 3965589 Belt Tensioner assumes a significant role. This component is integral to the proper functioning of the drive belt system, which in turn powers essential engine accessories.

Interaction with the Drive Belt

The drive belt, a continuous loop of reinforced rubber, is the workhorse that transfers rotational force from the crankshaft to various engine components. The 3965589 Belt Tensioner ensures that the drive belt maintains optimal tension. Without adequate tension, the belt could slip, leading to inefficient power transmission and potential damage to the belt and driven components.

Supporting the Alternator

One of the primary beneficiaries of the drive belt’s consistent tension is the alternator. This component relies on a steady rotational force to generate electricity for the vehicle’s electrical systems. The 3965589 Belt Tensioner, by keeping the belt taut, ensures that the alternator receives the necessary drive to function effectively.

Ensuring Water Pump Efficiency

The water pump is another critical component driven by the belt. It circulates coolant through the engine to prevent overheating. The 3965589 Belt Tensioner’s role in maintaining belt tension is vital for the water pump’s operation, as any slack in the belt could result in inadequate coolant flow and subsequent engine overheating.

Synergy with Other Tensioners

In many engine configurations, multiple tensioners work in concert to manage the complex network of belts. The 3965589 Belt Tensioner operates alongside other tensioners to create a harmonious balance of tension across the belt system. This collaboration is essential for the smooth and reliable operation of all belt-driven accessories.

Maintaining Belt Integrity

Over time, belts can stretch or become worn. The 3965589 Belt Tensioner adapts to these changes by automatically adjusting the belt’s tension, thereby prolonging the belt’s lifespan and maintaining its integrity. This adaptive function is key to preventing belt failure and the consequent downtime it would cause.

Conclusion

In summary, the 3965589 Belt Tensioner is a linchpin in the engine’s auxiliary system, ensuring that the drive belt performs its role with precision and reliability. Its influence extends to the alternator and water pump, among other components, underscoring its importance in the engine’s overall performance.


  1. Sclar, Deanna. Auto Repair for Dummies: 2nd Edition. For Dummies, 2008.

  2. Hilgers, Michael. Electrical Systems and Mechatronics, Second Edition. Springer Vieweg, 2023.

  3. Richards, Paul, and Barker, Jim. Automotive Fuels Reference Book. SAE International, 2023.

* This information is provided as is and may be out of date. Please contact us or the manufacturer to verify warranty coverage.
* Variable geometry turbocharger and electronic actuator repairs are not eligible to be claimed as over-the-counter under New or ReCon parts warranty for parts installed after October 1, 2018.
* Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC), Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), Selective Catalyst Reduction (SCR) catalyst, and Electronic Control Module (ECM) repairs are not eligible to be claimed as over-the-counter under New or ReCon parts warranty for parts installed after January 1, 2020.
* These restrictions are only applicable to New parts and ReCon parts coverages for the components listed above sold to a customer in the US or Canada. All other coverages are excluded. All other regions are excluded.