173709
Throttle Lever Link
Cummins®

The Throttle Lever Link 173709 is a component manufactured by Cummins, a well-established name in the commercial truck industry. This part is designed for use in commercial trucks, where it plays a significant role in the engine’s operation. Cummins is renowned for its high-quality engine components, and the Throttle Lever Link 173709 is no exception, offering reliable performance and durability ¹.

Basic Concepts

Understanding the fundamental principles behind the operation of a Throttle Lever Link is crucial for grasping its role in a truck’s engine system. The Throttle Lever Link is a mechanical component that connects the throttle pedal to the engine’s throttle mechanism. Its primary function is to control the engine speed and power output by regulating the amount of air entering the engine. When the driver presses the throttle pedal, the link transmits this motion to the throttle mechanism, which then adjusts the airflow accordingly ².

Purpose and Function

The Throttle Lever Link 173709 serves a specific purpose in the operation of a truck. It acts as a connector between the throttle pedal, which the driver operates, and the engine’s throttle mechanism. This link ensures that the driver’s input is accurately translated into engine performance. By modulating the airflow into the engine, the Throttle Lever Link directly influences the engine’s speed and power, allowing for precise control over the vehicle’s acceleration and deceleration ³.

Key Features

The Throttle Lever Link 173709 is characterized by several key features that enhance its performance and reliability. Its durable construction ensures longevity, even under the demanding conditions typical of commercial truck operations. The precise engineering of this component guarantees accurate throttle response, which is vital for safe and efficient driving. Additionally, the Throttle Lever Link 173709 is designed to be compatible with various Cummins engine models, ensuring versatility and ease of integration into different truck systems.

Benefits

The Throttle Lever Link 173709 offers several benefits that contribute to the overall performance and drivability of a truck. One of the primary advantages is improved throttle response, which allows for more precise control over the engine’s power output. This results in enhanced drivability, making the truck more responsive to the driver’s inputs. Additionally, the reliable construction and engineering of the Throttle Lever Link 173709 contribute to increased reliability, reducing the likelihood of malfunctions and ensuring consistent performance over time.

Installation and Compatibility

Proper installation of the Throttle Lever Link 173709 is vital to ensure optimal performance and compatibility with the truck’s engine system. The installation process involves connecting the link between the throttle pedal and the engine’s throttle mechanism, following the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure a secure and accurate fit. The Throttle Lever Link 173709 is compatible with a range of Cummins engine models, making it a versatile choice for various commercial truck applications.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Regular maintenance of the Throttle Lever Link 173709 is important to ensure its continued reliable operation. This includes periodic inspection for signs of wear or damage, as well as lubrication of moving parts to prevent sticking or binding. Troubleshooting common issues, such as inconsistent throttle response or difficulty in pedal operation, often involves checking the link for proper alignment and ensuring that all connections are secure. Addressing these issues promptly can help maintain the efficiency and safety of the truck’s operation.

Cummins Overview

Cummins Inc. is a global power leader that designs, manufactures, and distributes a wide range of power solutions, including engines, filtration, and related technologies. With a history spanning over a century, Cummins has established a strong reputation in the commercial truck industry for producing high-quality, reliable, and efficient engine components. The company’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction has made it a preferred choice for commercial truck manufacturers and operators worldwide.

Throttle Lever Link Compatibility with Cummins Engines

The Throttle Lever Link part number 173709, manufactured by Cummins, is designed to be compatible with a variety of Cummins engine models. This part is integral to the engine’s throttle control system, ensuring smooth and precise operation of the throttle mechanism.

K-Series Engines

• K19
• K38
• K50

The Throttle Lever Link part 173709 is engineered to fit seamlessly with the K-Series engines, including the K19, K38, and K50. These engines are known for their robust performance and reliability, making them a popular choice in various applications.

L-Series Engines

• L10 MECHANICAL

The L10 MECHANICAL engine also benefits from the precise fit and function of the Throttle Lever Link part 173709. This compatibility ensures that the engine’s throttle response remains accurate and consistent, contributing to overall performance.

N-Series Engines

• N14 MECHANICAL

The N14 MECHANICAL engine is another model that is compatible with the Throttle Lever Link part 173709. This compatibility is crucial for maintaining the engine’s throttle control, ensuring it operates smoothly under various conditions.

NH/NT Series Engines

• NH/NT 855

The NH/NT 855 engine is designed to work with the Throttle Lever Link part 173709, ensuring that the throttle mechanism functions as intended. This compatibility is essential for the engine’s performance and reliability.

V-Series Engines

• V28
• V903

The Throttle Lever Link part 173709 is also compatible with the V28 and V903 engines. This ensures that the throttle control system operates smoothly, contributing to the engine’s overall performance and efficiency.

Understanding the Integration of Part 173709 Throttle Lever Link in Engine Systems

The Throttle Lever Link, identified as part 173709, is an essential component in the orchestration of various engine systems, ensuring seamless operation and optimal performance. This component interfaces with several key elements within the engine assembly, facilitating precise control and efficient power delivery.

Interaction with Fuel Systems

The Throttle Lever Link works in conjunction with the Fuel Pump and the Fuel Sub 24V Pump to regulate the fuel supply in response to throttle demands. When the throttle is adjusted, the link transmits this movement to the fuel system, allowing for a proportional increase or decrease in fuel delivery. This interaction is vital for maintaining the correct air-fuel ratio, which is fundamental for engine efficiency and emissions control.

In scenarios where repairs or upgrades are necessary, the Fuel Pump Repair Kit may be employed. The Throttle Lever Link must be correctly aligned with this kit to ensure that the repaired fuel pump operates within the designed parameters, thus preserving engine performance and reliability.

Governor and Control Systems

The integration of the Throttle Lever Link with the Governor Kit and the Pierce Governor is instrumental in maintaining consistent engine speed under varying loads. The link transmits throttle position data to the governor, which then adjusts the fuel delivery to keep the engine speed stable. This is particularly important in applications where precise speed control is required, such as in agricultural equipment or generator sets.

Additionally, the link interfaces with the Vernier Throttle Control, allowing for fine adjustments to the throttle setting. This level of control is essential in applications requiring exact speed regulation, such as in military vehicles equipped with the MVS Fuel Pump (MIL).

Mechanical and Electrical Components

The Throttle Lever Link also engages with mechanical components like the Spring Tractor Pack and the Throttle and Bracket Cable Lever. These components work together to provide the necessary mechanical advantage and leverage required for smooth throttle operation. The spring pack ensures that the throttle returns to its default position when not actuated, while the cable lever system translates the linear motion of the throttle into rotational motion for the carburetor or fuel injection system.

On the electrical side, the link interacts with the Solenoid and Mounting Valve. This interaction is particularly relevant in electronically controlled engines, where the solenoid adjusts fuel delivery based on signals from the engine control unit (ECU). The precise movement of the Throttle Lever Link is thus critical for the solenoid to function correctly, ensuring that the engine responds accurately to driver inputs.

PDC Kit Integration

Lastly, the Throttle Lever Link is an integral part of the PDC Kit (Power Distribution Control Kit). This kit often includes various sensors and actuators that monitor and adjust engine parameters in real-time. The link ensures that the throttle position is accurately communicated to the PDC system, allowing for dynamic adjustments to fuel delivery, ignition timing, and other critical engine functions.

Conclusion

In summary, the Throttle Lever Link (part 173709) is a pivotal component that ensures the harmonious operation of various engine systems. Its precise integration with fuel, governor, mechanical, and electrical components is essential for optimal engine performance, efficiency, and reliability.