3901140
Camshaft Thrust Bearing
Cummins®

The 3901140 Camshaft Thrust Bearing, manufactured by Cummins, is designed to facilitate the smooth operation of commercial truck engines. This bearing is integral to the engine’s functionality, ensuring the camshaft operates within precise tolerances. Cummins is renowned for producing high-quality components that enhance engine performance and reliability ².

Basic Concepts of Camshaft Thrust Bearings

A camshaft thrust bearing is a specialized bearing that manages axial loads within an engine. It operates by allowing the camshaft to rotate while controlling its endwise movement. This bearing interacts with the camshaft and engine block, ensuring that the camshaft remains properly positioned and operates efficiently. The principles of thrust bearing operation involve the distribution of axial loads across a surface area to minimize friction and wear ⁴.

Purpose of the 3901140 Camshaft Thrust Bearing

The 3901140 Camshaft Thrust Bearing plays a role in the operation of a truck engine by managing axial loads and maintaining the camshaft’s positioning. It ensures that the camshaft does not move excessively in the axial direction, which could lead to misalignment and increased wear on engine components. By stabilizing the camshaft, this bearing contributes to the engine’s overall efficiency and longevity ³.

Key Features

The 3901140 Camshaft Thrust Bearing is characterized by its robust design and construction. It is made from high-quality materials that offer excellent load-bearing capacity and durability. The bearing’s design includes features that enhance its performance, such as precision-machined surfaces and a configuration that allows for optimal load distribution. These elements contribute to its reliability and effectiveness in managing axial loads ¹.

Benefits

Using the 3901140 Camshaft Thrust Bearing in truck engines offers several advantages. Its durable construction ensures long-term performance, while its efficient load management capabilities contribute to reduced wear on engine components. Additionally, the bearing’s design enhances engine longevity by maintaining precise camshaft positioning, which is vital for the engine’s operation ².

Installation Process

Proper installation of the 3901140 Camshaft Thrust Bearing is crucial for its performance and the engine’s overall health. The installation process involves carefully positioning the bearing within the engine block and ensuring it is properly aligned with the camshaft. Best practices include thorough cleaning of the installation area, using the correct tools, and following manufacturer guidelines to avoid common pitfalls such as misalignment or improper seating ³.

Troubleshooting

Common issues associated with camshaft thrust bearings can include excessive wear, noise, or failure to maintain camshaft positioning. Symptoms of these problems may manifest as engine noise, decreased performance, or increased wear on related components. Diagnostic procedures involve inspecting the bearing for signs of damage, measuring camshaft end play, and assessing the condition of mating surfaces. Potential solutions range from cleaning and lubrication to bearing replacement, depending on the severity of the issue ⁴.

Maintenance Tips

Regular maintenance of the 3901140 Camshaft Thrust Bearing is key to ensuring its longevity and performance. Maintenance procedures include periodic inspection for signs of wear or damage, ensuring proper lubrication, and adhering to recommended replacement intervals. Following these guidelines helps prevent unexpected failures and contributes to the engine’s reliable operation ¹.

Performance Enhancements

Proper maintenance and timely replacement of the 3901140 Camshaft Thrust Bearing can significantly enhance engine performance and reliability. By ensuring the bearing operates within its designed parameters, engine efficiency is maintained, and the risk of camshaft misalignment or excessive wear is minimized. This contributes to smoother engine operation and potentially extends the engine’s service life ².

Cummins Overview

Cummins Inc. is a leading manufacturer in the automotive and heavy-duty truck industries, with a history of innovation and commitment to quality. Founded in 1919, Cummins has grown to become a global leader in the production of engines and related technologies. Their dedication to research and development, along with a focus on customer satisfaction, has established Cummins as a trusted name in the manufacturing of automotive components ².

Cummins Camshaft Thrust Bearing 3901140 Compatibility

The Cummins Camshaft Thrust Bearing part number 3901140 is designed to ensure smooth and reliable operation of the camshaft within various engine configurations. This bearing is engineered to reduce friction and wear, thereby extending the lifespan of the camshaft and maintaining optimal engine performance ³.

Engine Compatibility

• 4B3.9 and 6B5.9 Engines

The 3901140 Camshaft Thrust Bearing is compatible with both the 4B3.9 and 6B5.9 engines. These engines, while differing in their specific configurations and capacities, share common design principles that allow for the interchangeability of certain components, including the camshaft thrust bearing ³.

• Grouping of Engines

Both the 4B3.9 and 6B5.9 engines belong to a series of Cummins diesel engines known for their robustness and efficiency. The shared design elements in these engines facilitate the use of standardized parts like the 3901140 camshaft thrust bearing, ensuring that maintenance and repair processes are streamlined and cost-effective ³.

By utilizing the 3901140 Camshaft Thrust Bearing in these engines, operators can benefit from enhanced reliability and performance, as this bearing is specifically designed to meet the demands of Cummins’ engine technology ³.

Role of Part 3901140 Camshaft Thrust Bearing in Engine Systems

The camshaft thrust bearing, identified by part number 3901140, is integral to the smooth operation of various engine components. It is specifically designed to manage the axial loads exerted on the camshaft, ensuring that the camshaft remains properly positioned within the engine block ⁴.

When integrating the camshaft thrust bearing into an engine system, it interacts closely with the engine block. The bearing is installed at one end of the camshaft, typically within the cylinder block, to prevent endwise movement. This stability is essential for maintaining the camshaft’s alignment with the valve train components ⁴.

In a cylinder short block assembly, the camshaft thrust bearing works in conjunction with the main bearing set. The main bearings support the crankshaft, while the camshaft thrust bearing ensures the camshaft does not shift under operational stresses. This synergy is vital for the precise timing required between the camshaft and crankshaft ⁴.

During an engine overhaul or when using a rebuild kit, the camshaft thrust bearing is a component that demands careful attention. Its condition directly influences the camshaft’s performance and, by extension, the valve operation. A worn or damaged thrust bearing can lead to camshaft misalignment, affecting valve timing and potentially causing engine inefficiencies or damage ⁴.

In summary, the camshaft thrust bearing (part 3901140) plays a significant role in maintaining the integrity and performance of the engine’s valve train system. Its proper function ensures that the camshaft operates within specified tolerances, contributing to the overall reliability and efficiency of the engine ⁴.

Conclusion

The 3901140 Camshaft Thrust Bearing is a critical component in the operation of Cummins engines, ensuring the smooth and efficient functioning of the camshaft. Its robust design, compatibility with various engine configurations, and the role it plays in managing axial loads contribute to the engine’s overall performance and longevity. Proper installation, maintenance, and timely replacement of this bearing are essential for maintaining engine efficiency and reliability.