3288656
V Ribbed Belt
Cummins®

The Cummins 3288656 V Ribbed Belt is a component designed for use in commercial trucks. It serves a role in the operation of these vehicles by facilitating the transfer of power from the engine to various accessories. Understanding its purpose and significance is key to maintaining the efficiency and reliability of truck operations.

Basic Concepts of V Ribbed Belts

V Ribbed Belts are a type of drive belt characterized by their trapezoidal cross-section, which allows for a larger contact area with the pulleys they engage ¹. This design enhances their efficiency and durability compared to flat belts. V Ribbed Belts function within the engine’s accessory drive system, transmitting power to components such as the alternator, water pump, and air conditioning compressor. They differ from other belt types, like flat or timing belts, in their construction and application, offering improved performance in high-load environments typical of commercial trucks ².

Purpose of the Cummins 3288656 V Ribbed Belt

This Cummins part plays a role in the operation of a truck by driving essential accessories. These include the alternator for electrical power generation, the water pump for engine cooling, the power steering pump for steering assistance, and the air conditioning compressor for climate control. Its function ensures that these accessories operate efficiently, contributing to the overall performance and comfort of the vehicle.

Key Features

The Cummins 3288656 V Ribbed Belt is distinguished by its design and materials. It is constructed from high-quality elastomers and reinforced with textile cords, providing strength and flexibility. Its unique characteristics, such as resistance to heat, oil, and abrasion, enhance its performance and durability in demanding truck applications ³.

Benefits

Using the Cummins 3288656 V Ribbed Belt offers several advantages. It contributes to improved efficiency in power transmission, reducing the load on the engine. Its design leads to lower maintenance requirements compared to other belt types, and its durability ensures long-term reliability in commercial truck operations.

Installation

Installing the Cummins 3288656 V Ribbed Belt requires attention to detail to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Proper tensioning and alignment are critical. Guidelines recommend following the manufacturer’s specifications for tension to avoid over-tightening, which can lead to premature wear, or under-tightening, which may cause slipping and inefficiency.

Troubleshooting

Common issues with V Ribbed Belts include slipping, cracking, and excessive wear. These problems can often be traced to incorrect tension, misalignment, or environmental factors. Diagnosing these issues involves inspecting the belt for signs of wear, checking the alignment and tension of the belt, and addressing any underlying causes such as pulley wear or contamination.

Maintenance

Maintaining the Cummins 3288656 V Ribbed Belt is key to its longevity and performance. Regular inspections should be conducted to check for signs of wear, such as cracking, glazing, or fraying. Replacement should be considered when these signs are present to prevent belt failure and ensure continuous operation of the truck’s accessories.

Cummins Overview

Cummins Inc. is a leader in the commercial truck industry, known for its commitment to quality and innovation in engine and component manufacturing. With a rich history of providing reliable and efficient solutions, Cummins continues to set standards in the industry, ensuring that its components, like the 3288656 V Ribbed Belt, meet the high demands of commercial truck applications.

V Ribbed Belt 3288656 Compatibility with Cummins Engines

This Cummins part is designed to fit a variety of Cummins engines. This belt is essential for the proper functioning of the engine’s ancillary systems, ensuring that components such as the alternator, water pump, and air conditioning compressor operate efficiently.

Compatible Engines

• 6B5.9
• 6C8.3
• B6.7 CM2350 B135B
• B6.7 CM2670 B153B
• C GAS PLUS CM556
• C8.3 G
• ISB CM550
• ISC CM554
• ISC CM850
• ISL CM554
• ISL G CM2180
• ISL9 CM2150 SN
• L GAS PLUS CM556
• M11 CELECT PLUS
• M11 MECHANICAL
• QSB5.9 44 CM550
• QSC8.3 CM554
• QSL9 CM554
• QSX15 CM2350 X105
• VTA903 CM2250 V105

Grouping of Compatible Engines

The V Ribbed Belt 3288656 is compatible with a broad range of Cummins engines, including both gas and diesel models. Here is a grouping of the engines based on their series and applications:

• 6 Series Engines: 6B5.9, 6C8.3
• B6.7 Series Engines: B6.7 CM2350 B135B, B6.7 CM2670 B153B
• C Series Engines: C GAS PLUS CM556, C8.3 G
• ISB Series Engines: ISB CM550
• ISC Series Engines: ISC CM554, ISC CM850
• ISL Series Engines: ISL CM554, ISL G CM2180, ISL9 CM2150 SN
• L Series Engines: L GAS PLUS CM556
• M11 Series Engines: M11 CELECT PLUS, M11 MECHANICAL
• QSB Series Engines: QSB5.9 44 CM550
• QSC Series Engines: QSC8.3 CM554
• QSL Series Engines: QSL9 CM554
• QSX Series Engines: QSX15 CM2350 X105
• VTA Series Engines: VTA903 CM2250 V105

This comprehensive compatibility ensures that the V Ribbed Belt 3288656 can be used across a wide range of applications, providing reliable performance and durability.

Role of Part 3288656 V Ribbed Belt in Engine Systems

The V Ribbed Belt, identified as part 3288656, is integral to the efficient operation of several engine components. It facilitates the transfer of rotational force from the engine’s crankshaft to various peripheral components, ensuring their synchronized operation.

Alternator Drive

The V Ribbed Belt is responsible for driving the alternator. As the belt engages with the alternator pulley, it spins the alternator, which in turn generates electrical power to charge the battery and power the vehicle’s electrical systems.

Alternator Location and Mounting

Proper installation of the V Ribbed Belt is essential considering the alternator’s location and mounting. The belt must be correctly aligned and tensioned to ensure efficient power transfer without slippage or excessive wear.

Fan Drive

In many engine configurations, the V Ribbed Belt also drives the engine cooling fan. This ensures that the fan operates in sync with the engine speed, providing adequate cooling to prevent overheating.

Water Pump

A key function of the V Ribbed Belt is to drive the water pump. The water pump circulates coolant through the engine, maintaining optimal operating temperatures and preventing both overheating and inefficient running conditions.

Water Pump Drive and Pulley

The efficiency of the water pump drive depends on the proper engagement of the V Ribbed Belt with the water pump pulley. The belt must be correctly tensioned to ensure consistent coolant flow, which is vital for engine health.

Conclusion

In summary, the V Ribbed Belt (part 3288656) plays a significant role in the coordinated function of the alternator, cooling fan, and water pump within the engine system. Its proper installation and maintenance are essential for the reliable operation of these components.