3873542
BREATHER,CRANKCASE
Cummins®

The BREATHER, CRANKCASE (Part #3873542) manufactured by Cummins is a component designed to facilitate the ventilation of the crankcase in commercial trucks. It plays a role in the crankcase ventilation system by allowing pressurized gases to escape while preventing contaminants from entering the crankcase. This helps maintain engine efficiency and longevity ⁴.

Basic Concepts of Crankcase Ventilation

The crankcase ventilation system is designed to manage the blow-by gases that escape past the piston rings into the crankcase. These gases, which consist of unburned fuel, combustion byproducts, and moisture, can contaminate the engine oil if not properly ventilated. The system’s primary function is to ensure that the engine oil remains clean, which is vital for lubricating moving parts and reducing wear ³. The crankcase breather is a key component in this system, allowing these gases to be expelled while keeping external contaminants out.

Purpose of the Breather, Crankcase

The BREATHER, CRANKCASE serves to regulate the pressure within the crankcase by allowing gases to escape. This prevents the buildup of pressure that could lead to oil leaks or other engine issues. Additionally, it incorporates a filtration system to ensure that dust, dirt, and other particulates are not drawn into the crankcase along with the air that replaces the expelled gases. By maintaining a clean environment within the crankcase, the breather contributes to engine efficiency and extends the life of the engine oil ².

Key Features of Part #3873542

The Cummins BREATHER, CRANKCASE is constructed with high-quality materials to ensure durability and reliability. It features advanced filtration capabilities to effectively trap contaminants, ensuring that only clean air enters the crankcase. The design includes a robust housing that can withstand the harsh conditions of commercial truck operations. Additionally, the breather is engineered to provide optimal ventilation, balancing the need to expel gases with the requirement to keep the crankcase sealed against contaminants ¹.

Benefits of Using the Cummins Breather, Crankcase

Utilizing the Cummins BREATHER, CRANKCASE offers several advantages. It contributes to improved engine performance by ensuring that the crankcase remains pressurized within safe limits and that the engine oil stays clean. This can lead to extended oil life, reducing the frequency of oil changes and associated costs. Additionally, by efficiently managing crankcase gases, the breather helps reduce emissions, contributing to a cleaner environment. Enhanced engine reliability is another benefit, as the breather helps prevent oil contamination and associated engine wear ⁴.

Installation and Compatibility

Proper installation of the BREATHER, CRANKCASE is vital to ensure its effective operation. It is designed to be compatible with a range of Cummins engines and is suitable for various commercial truck applications. When installing, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure a secure fit and proper function. Compatibility with specific engine models should be verified to ensure optimal performance and integration within the engine’s ventilation system ².

Troubleshooting and Maintenance

Common issues with the BREATHER, CRANKCASE may include reduced airflow due to clogging or damage to the filtration system. Symptoms can include increased crankcase pressure, oil leaks, or contaminated engine oil. Regular maintenance, including inspection and cleaning of the breather, is recommended to ensure optimal performance. If the breather is damaged or its filtration efficiency is compromised, replacement may be necessary to maintain engine health and performance ³.

Cummins: A Brief Overview

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 has established a reputation for quality and innovation in the commercial truck industry. The company is committed to providing reliable and efficient engine components, including the BREATHER, CRANKCASE, to support the performance and longevity of commercial vehicles ⁴.

Engine Compatibility for Part 3873542

The BREATHER, CRANKCASE part 3873542, manufactured by Cummins, is designed to fit a variety of Cummins engines. Here is a detailed look at the compatibility of this part with the specified engines:

G855 Series

• G855
• G855 CM558

GTA855 Series

• GTA855 CM558 (CM2358)

G101 Series

• G101

K19 Series

• K19
• KTA19GC
• KTA19GC CM558

N14 Series

• N14 G

QSK19 Series

• QSK19 CM500

This part is integral to the crankcase ventilation system, ensuring that the engine operates efficiently and safely by managing the pressure within the crankcase. The compatibility across these engine series highlights the versatility and robustness of the BREATHER, CRANKCASE part 3873542 in various Cummins engine configurations ⁴.

Role of Part 3873542 BREATHER,CRANKCASE in Engine Systems

The BREATHER, CRANKCASE is an essential component in maintaining the health and efficiency of engine systems. It is strategically integrated into various engine components to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Integration with Engine Components

1. Crankcase Breather Arrangement:

   • The breather is a key element in the crankcase breather arrangement. It allows for the release of pressure built up within the crankcase, which is vital for maintaining a stable environment for the engine’s internal components.

2. Valve Cover:

   • Positioned beneath the valve cover, the breather facilitates the removal of contaminants and moisture that may accumulate. This helps in preserving the integrity of the valve cover and the components housed within it.

3. Base Parts:

   • The breather is often connected to base parts of the engine, ensuring that any gases or vapors produced during combustion are effectively vented. This reduces the risk of pressure build-up that could lead to leaks or damage.

4. Breather Location:

   • Its location is carefully chosen to maximize efficiency. Typically, it is placed where it can easily capture and expel gases from the crankcase, ensuring that the engine operates smoothly.

5. Cam Follower Cover:

   • In engines with a cam follower cover, the breather works in conjunction with this cover to manage pressure and expel gases, contributing to the overall stability and performance of the camshaft and its followers.

6. CCV System Retrofit Kit:

   • When retrofitting an engine with a Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system, the breather plays a significant role. It ensures that the retrofit kit functions as intended by managing the flow of gases and preventing contamination.

7. Rocker Housing Cover:

   • The breather is also integrated into the rocker housing cover, aiding in the expulsion of gases that could otherwise interfere with the operation of the rocker arms and valves.

8. Rocker Lever Cover:

   • Similar to the rocker housing cover, the rocker lever cover benefits from the breather’s ability to maintain a clean and pressure-free environment, ensuring that the rocker levers operate without hindrance.

By effectively managing pressure and expelling contaminants, the BREATHER, CRANKCASE ensures that engine components such as the valve cover, cam follower cover, and rocker housing cover function optimally, contributing to the overall efficiency and reliability of the engine system ⁴.

Conclusion

The BREATHER, CRANKCASE (Part #3873542) is a critical component in the crankcase ventilation system of Cummins engines. Its role in managing pressure and expelling contaminants ensures that the engine operates efficiently and reliably. Proper installation, regular maintenance, and understanding its integration with various engine components are essential for maximizing the benefits of this part. Cummins’ commitment to quality and innovation is evident in the design and functionality of the BREATHER, CRANKCASE, making it a valuable component for commercial truck engines ⁴.