4987580
Belt Guard
Cummins®

The 4987580 Belt Guard, a component manufactured by Cummins, plays a significant role in the operation of commercial trucks. This part contributes to the overall efficiency and safety of the vehicle by providing essential protection and functionality.

Basic Concepts of Belt Guards

A belt guard is a protective enclosure designed to shield belts and other moving parts within machinery. Its primary function is to prevent accidental contact with these components, which can be hazardous and lead to equipment damage. In heavy-duty trucks, belt guards are crucial for safeguarding the belts that drive various systems, ensuring smooth operation and reducing the risk of injury to operators and maintenance personnel ¹.

Purpose of the 4987580 Belt Guard

The 4987580 Belt Guard is designed to protect the belts within a truck’s engine compartment. It plays a role in the operation of a truck by encasing the belts, which are crucial for driving components such as the alternator, water pump, and air conditioning compressor. By providing a barrier around these belts, the belt guard helps to prevent debris from interfering with their function and protects them from physical damage ².

Key Features

The 4987580 Belt Guard is constructed from durable materials that offer resistance to wear and environmental factors. Its design includes precise fitting elements that ensure it securely encloses the belts without impeding their movement. Unique attributes of this belt guard may include reinforced edges for added strength and easy-to-install features that simplify the replacement process.

Benefits

The advantages provided by the 4987580 Belt Guard include enhanced safety by reducing the risk of contact with moving belts, which can cause injury. It also contributes to reduced maintenance needs by protecting the belts from contaminants and physical damage, thereby extending their lifespan. The durable construction of the belt guard ensures it can withstand the rigors of heavy-duty truck operation, providing long-term reliability ³.

Installation Process

To install the 4987580 Belt Guard, begin by ensuring the truck’s engine is turned off and cooled down. Locate the belts within the engine compartment that require protection. Position the belt guard over the belts, aligning it with the designated mounting points. Use the appropriate tools to secure the belt guard in place, following the manufacturer’s instructions for tightening and ensuring a snug fit. Verify that the belts operate freely within the guard and that there is no interference with other components.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Common problems associated with belt guards may include misalignment, which can cause belts to rub against the guard, leading to wear. To address this, check the guard’s positioning and adjust as necessary to ensure belts run true. Another issue may be damage to the guard itself, which can compromise its protective function. Inspect the guard regularly for signs of wear or damage and replace it if necessary to maintain optimal protection.

Maintenance Tips

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of the 4987580 Belt Guard, regular maintenance practices are recommended. Inspect the guard during routine engine checks for any signs of wear, damage, or misalignment. Clean the guard as part of your maintenance routine to remove any buildup that could affect its function. If the guard shows signs of significant wear or damage, it should be replaced to maintain the protection of the belts and the safety of the truck’s operation.

About Cummins

Cummins Inc. is a global power leader that designs, manufactures, and distributes a wide range of power solutions. With a history spanning over a century, Cummins has established a reputation for quality and innovation in the automotive industry. The company’s product range includes engines, filtration systems, and other components that are integral to the operation of commercial vehicles, among other applications. Cummins is known for its commitment to customer satisfaction and the continuous improvement of its products.

Belt Guard 4987580 Compatibility with Cummins Engines

The Belt Guard part number 4987580, manufactured by Cummins, is designed to fit seamlessly with a range of Cummins engines. This part is crucial for maintaining the integrity and efficiency of the engine’s belt system by providing a protective barrier that prevents the belts from coming into contact with moving components, thereby reducing wear and tear.

K38 Engines

For the K38 engine series, the Belt Guard 4987580 is engineered to fit precisely within the engine’s layout. Its design ensures that it aligns perfectly with the engine’s belt routing, providing optimal protection and support. This compatibility is essential for maintaining the engine’s performance and longevity.

K50 Engines

Similarly, the Belt Guard 4987580 is also compatible with the K50 engine series. The part is tailored to fit the specific design and requirements of the K50 engines, ensuring that it effectively shields the belts from potential hazards. This compatibility is critical for the efficient operation of the engine, as it helps to maintain the integrity of the belt system.

Grouping Compatibility

In both the K38 and K50 engine series, the Belt Guard 4987580 is designed to be a universal fit, ensuring that it can be used across various models within these series. This grouping allows for easier maintenance and repair, as technicians can use a single part number for multiple engine models, simplifying inventory management and reducing downtime.

Role of Part 4987580 Belt Guard in Engine Systems

The 4987580 Belt Guard is a vital component in safeguarding various engine systems, ensuring their efficient and safe operation.

Integration with Cooling Systems

When integrated with the radiator and radiator kit, the Belt Guard provides a protective barrier around the drive belt that powers the water pump. This protection is vital as it prevents debris from interfering with the belt, which could lead to belt wear, slippage, or even failure. A well-protected belt ensures consistent operation of the water pump, maintaining optimal coolant flow through the radiator and preventing engine overheating.

Enhanced Protection for Plumbing and Mounting

In systems that include radiator plumbing mounting, the Belt Guard plays a significant role in shielding the intricate network of hoses and connections. By keeping the drive belt away from these components, it reduces the risk of accidental damage that could lead to coolant leaks or system failure. This is particularly important in high-stress environments where vibrations and movement are common.

Support for Water Pump Kits

For water pump kits, the Belt Guard is instrumental in maintaining the integrity of the drive system. By encasing the belt, it ensures that the water pump operates smoothly and efficiently, without the risk of belt-related issues affecting the pump’s performance. This is essential for maintaining consistent coolant circulation, which is key to engine temperature regulation and overall engine health.

Conclusion

The 4987580 Belt Guard is a vital component in protecting and ensuring the reliable operation of various engine systems, particularly those related to cooling and fluid circulation. Its role in safeguarding the drive belt from external factors contributes to the longevity and efficiency of these critical engine components.