4951822
Flexplate
Cummins®

The Cummins 4951822 Flexplate is a component designed for use in heavy-duty trucks. It serves as a link between the engine and the transmission, facilitating the transfer of power. Its role in ensuring smooth and efficient operation of the drivetrain makes it a significant part of the truck’s mechanical system.

Basic Concepts of a Flexplate

A flexplate is a flexible disc that connects the engine to the transmission in automatic vehicles. Unlike a traditional flywheel, which is used in manual transmissions and is typically made of solid metal, a flexplate is usually made from stamped steel and is designed to flex slightly. This flexibility allows it to absorb some of the torsional vibrations produced by the engine, contributing to a smoother operation of the drivetrain ¹.

Purpose of the Cummins 4951822 Flexplate

This Cummins part plays a role in the operation of a truck by connecting the engine to the torque converter, which is part of the automatic transmission. It transmits the engine’s rotational force to the transmission, enabling the truck to move. The flexplate’s design allows it to accommodate the varying loads and stresses encountered in heavy-duty applications, ensuring reliable power transfer ².

Key Features

The Cummins 4951822 Flexplate is characterized by its robust design and the materials used in its construction. It is made from high-strength steel, which provides durability under the demanding conditions of heavy-duty use. The flexplate features a series of holes and slots that allow for the attachment of the starter motor and the damping of vibrations. Its design also includes provisions for the torque converter bolts, ensuring a secure fit ³.

Benefits

This part offers several benefits in heavy-duty applications. Its design contributes to improved efficiency by ensuring a smooth transfer of power from the engine to the transmission. The use of high-strength materials enhances its durability, allowing it to withstand the rigors of heavy-duty use. Additionally, the flexplate’s ability to dampen vibrations can lead to a smoother driving experience and reduced wear on other components ⁴.

Installation Considerations

Proper installation of the Cummins 4951822 Flexplate is important for ensuring its performance and longevity. It should be aligned correctly with the engine and transmission to prevent issues such as vibration or failure to engage. Torque specifications provided by the manufacturer should be followed to ensure that the flexplate is secured properly without overtightening, which could lead to damage ⁵.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Common issues with the Cummins 4951822 Flexplate may include vibration, noise, or failure to engage with the torque converter. These issues can often be traced to improper installation, wear, or damage to the flexplate. Troubleshooting steps may involve checking the alignment and torque of the flexplate, inspecting for damage, and ensuring that all connections are secure ⁶.

Maintenance Tips

To ensure optimal performance and longevity of the Cummins 4951822 Flexplate, regular maintenance is recommended. This includes periodic inspection for signs of wear or damage, ensuring that all connections are tight, and cleaning the flexplate to remove any buildup that could affect its operation. Following the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance intervals can help prevent issues and extend the life of the component ⁷.

Cummins 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 automotive industry. The company offers a wide range of products designed for various applications, including heavy-duty trucks, where reliability and performance are paramount.

Flexplate 4951822 Compatibility with Cummins Engines

The Flexplate 4951822, manufactured by Cummins, is a component in the engine assembly, serving as the interface between the engine and the transmission. This part is designed to absorb the torque variations and vibrations produced by the engine, ensuring a smooth power transfer to the transmission.

QSK50 CM2150 MCRS and QSK50 CM2350 K108

The Flexplate 4951822 is compatible with both the QSK50 CM2150 MCRS and QSK50 CM2350 K108 engines. These engines are part of Cummins’ QSK series, known for their robust design and high performance in various applications. The flexplate’s design ensures it can handle the specific torque and power output characteristics of these engines, maintaining the integrity of the engine-to-transmission connection ⁸.

Engine Grouping

Both engines, QSK50 CM2150 MCRS and QSK50 CM2350 K108, belong to the same series and share many common components, including the flexplate. This commonality simplifies maintenance and repair processes, as the same part can be used across different engine models within the series. The flexplate’s compatibility with these engines underscores the importance of using genuine Cummins parts to ensure optimal performance and longevity ⁹.

Role of Part 4951822 Flexplate in Engine Systems

The part 4951822 Flexplate is a component in the interaction between the engine and transmission in a vehicle. It serves as a connection point, facilitating the transfer of power from the engine to the transmission through the torque converter.

Interaction with the Flywheel

In manual transmission vehicles, the flywheel performs a role similar to that of the Flexplate in automatic transmissions. The Flexplate attaches to the rear of the engine’s crankshaft, replacing the flywheel in automatic systems. It provides a surface for the starter motor’s pinion gear to engage, allowing the engine to be started. Once the engine is running, the Flexplate transmits the rotational force generated by the crankshaft to the torque converter, which then transfers this power to the transmission ¹⁰.

Function in the Torque Converter System

The Flexplate is bolted to the front of the engine’s crankshaft and is splined to the input shaft of the torque converter. As the engine runs, the crankshaft’s rotation is directly transmitted to the Flexplate. This rotational energy is then conveyed through the Flexplate to the torque converter, initiating the fluid coupling process that allows for smooth power transfer to the transmission. The design of the Flexplate ensures that it can withstand the high torque loads and vibrations inherent in this process, maintaining a stable connection between the engine and transmission ¹¹.

Conclusion

The Cummins 4951822 Flexplate is a vital component in the drivetrain of heavy-duty trucks, ensuring efficient and smooth power transfer from the engine to the transmission. Its robust design, made from high-strength steel, and its ability to dampen vibrations contribute to the overall performance and longevity of the vehicle. Proper installation, regular maintenance, and the use of genuine Cummins parts are essential for optimal operation and to prevent common issues such as vibration or failure to engage with the torque converter.