4381506
Thermostat
Cummins®

The 4381506 Thermostat by Cummins is designed to maintain optimal engine temperature in commercial trucks. This part ensures the engine operates within the desired temperature range, contributing to overall efficiency and longevity of the vehicle.

Basic Concepts of a Thermostat

A thermostat regulates the temperature within an engine cooling system by opening and closing in response to coolant temperature. When the engine is cold, the thermostat remains closed, preventing coolant from flowing through the radiator. As the engine warms up, the thermostat gradually opens, allowing coolant to circulate and maintain a stable operating temperature.

Purpose of the 4381506 Thermostat

The 4381506 Thermostat regulates engine temperature in trucks, ensuring the engine reaches and maintains its optimal operating temperature. This enhances fuel efficiency, reduces emissions, and protects engine components from thermal stress.

Key Features

This Cummins part is constructed from durable materials to withstand high temperatures and pressure. It includes a wax pellet and a spring mechanism for precise temperature control and is engineered to provide a tight seal, preventing coolant leaks and ensuring efficient coolant flow.

Benefits of Using the 4381506 Thermostat

Using this part contributes to improved engine efficiency by maintaining optimal operating temperatures, leading to better fuel economy and reduced emissions. Its robust construction and precise temperature control enhance the longevity and reliability of the engine.

Installation Process

Installing the 4381506 Thermostat requires careful attention. Begin by draining the coolant from the engine. Remove the old thermostat, ensuring all gasket material is cleaned from the housing. Install the new thermostat with the spring side facing the engine block. Reassemble the housing and refill the cooling system with coolant. Use the appropriate tools to avoid damaging the thermostat or housing during installation.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Common issues with thermostats include failure to open or close properly, leading to overheating or insufficient warming of the engine. If the engine overheats, it may indicate a stuck-closed thermostat. Conversely, if the engine takes too long to warm up, the thermostat may be stuck open. Regular inspection and replacement of the thermostat can help prevent these issues.

Maintenance Tips

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of the 4381506 Thermostat, regular maintenance is recommended. This includes periodic inspection for signs of wear or damage, ensuring the housing is free of debris, and replacing the thermostat according to the manufacturer’s guidelines or as part of routine engine maintenance.

About Cummins

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 is renowned for its high-quality products and innovative solutions in the commercial truck industry. The company’s commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction has established it as a trusted name in the field.

Thermostat 4381506 in Cummins Engines

The thermostat 4381506, manufactured by Cummins, is a component in the engine cooling system of various Cummins engines. This part is designed to maintain the engine’s optimal operating temperature by regulating the flow of coolant.

QSK60 Engine

In the QSK60 engine, the thermostat 4381506 ensures that the engine reaches its optimal temperature quickly and maintains it throughout the engine’s operation. This is important for maximizing fuel efficiency and minimizing emissions. The QSK60 is a high-performance engine, and the thermostat plays a role in its performance by preventing overheating and ensuring that the engine operates within its designed temperature range.

CM500 Engine

Similarly, in the CM500 engine, the thermostat 4381506 is integral to the engine’s cooling system. It helps in achieving and maintaining the engine’s ideal temperature, which is important for the engine’s longevity and performance. The CM500 engine is known for its reliability and efficiency, and the thermostat ensures that these characteristics are maintained by preventing the engine from overheating and ensuring efficient coolant flow.

Grouping of Engines

Both the QSK60 and CM500 engines benefit from the precise temperature regulation provided by the thermostat 4381506. This part is designed to work seamlessly with the cooling systems of these engines, ensuring that they operate efficiently and reliably. The thermostat’s role in these engines is to maintain a balance between the engine’s heat generation and the cooling system’s capacity to dissipate it, thereby protecting the engine from damage and ensuring optimal performance.

Role of Part 4381506 Thermostat in Engine Systems

The part 4381506 thermostat is a component within the engine’s cooling system, working in conjunction with several other parts to maintain optimal engine temperature.

Interaction with the Thermostat Housing

The thermostat is housed within the thermostat housing, a component designed to contain the thermostat and facilitate its operation. The housing is typically made from durable materials such as aluminum or plastic to withstand the high temperatures and pressures within the engine cooling system. The thermostat, part 4381506, fits snugly into this housing, ensuring a secure seal that prevents coolant leaks.

Function within the Cooling System

Once installed, the thermostat monitors the temperature of the coolant as it flows from the engine block. When the engine is cold, the thermostat remains closed, blocking the flow of coolant to the radiator. This allows the engine to warm up more quickly, enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions during the warm-up phase.

As the engine reaches its operating temperature, the thermostat gradually opens, allowing coolant to flow through the radiator where it is cooled before returning to the engine. This continuous cycle helps maintain the engine at its optimal operating temperature, ensuring efficient performance and longevity.

Integration with Other Components

The thermostat housing is connected to the engine block via gaskets and bolts, creating a sealed environment for the thermostat to operate. The housing also connects to the upper radiator hose, which carries hot coolant from the engine to the radiator for cooling.

Conclusion

In summary, the 4381506 Thermostat plays a role in the engine’s cooling system by regulating the flow of coolant based on the engine’s temperature. Its proper function is dependent on its secure fit within the thermostat housing and its interaction with the engine block and radiator hoses. Regular maintenance and proper installation are essential to ensure the thermostat’s effectiveness and the engine’s optimal performance.