3969460
Lock Washer
Cummins®

The Cummins 3969460 Lock Washer is a specialized component designed for use in heavy-duty truck maintenance and operation. This part is integral to ensuring the reliability and safety of bolted connections in demanding environments. Its role is to enhance the security of fasteners, preventing loosening due to vibrations and dynamic loads commonly encountered in heavy-duty applications.

Basic Concepts of Lock Washers

Lock washers are designed to prevent fastened components from loosening. Unlike regular washers, which primarily distribute load and protect surfaces, lock washers incorporate features that create tension or bite into the surfaces they are placed between. This tension helps to maintain the integrity of the fastened joint, especially under conditions where regular washers might fail to keep components securely in place ¹.

Purpose of the Cummins 3969460 Lock Washer

The Cummins 3969460 Lock Washer is specifically engineered to secure bolted connections in heavy-duty trucks. It contributes to the integrity of these connections by preventing fasteners from loosening under dynamic loads and vibrations, which are common in heavy-duty truck operations. This ensures that critical components remain securely fastened, enhancing safety and reliability ².

Key Features

The Cummins 3969460 Lock Washer is characterized by its design and material composition, which are tailored for heavy-duty applications. It features a split design that creates tension when the bolt is tightened, enhancing the security of the fastened joint. Made from high-strength materials, it is capable of withstanding the rigors of heavy-duty use, including exposure to vibrations, dynamic loads, and harsh environmental conditions ³.

Benefits

Using the Cummins 3969460 Lock Washer offers several benefits. It provides improved vibration resistance, ensuring that fasteners remain secure even under the demanding conditions typical of heavy-duty truck operations. Additionally, it enhances load distribution across the fastened joint, reducing the risk of component failure. The increased fastening security it offers contributes to the overall reliability and safety of the vehicle.

Installation Guidelines

To ensure optimal performance and longevity, the Cummins 3969460 Lock Washer should be installed according to specific guidelines. First, ensure the surfaces to be fastened are clean and free of debris. Place the lock washer under the bolt head or nut, ensuring it is correctly oriented to create the desired tension. Tighten the bolt or nut to the manufacturer’s specified torque, taking care not to overtighten, which could damage the lock washer or the components being fastened.

Troubleshooting and Maintenance

Common issues with lock washers include signs of wear or failure, such as deformation or loss of tension. Regular inspection of lock washers and associated fasteners is recommended to identify any signs of wear or damage. Maintenance practices, such as proper torque application during installation and periodic re-tightening of fasteners, can help extend the lifespan of the washer and ensure the continued security of fastened joints.

Cummins Corporation Overview

Cummins Inc. is a global power leader that designs, manufactures, and distributes a wide range of power solutions, including diesel and natural gas engines, as well as related technologies. With a history of innovation and commitment to quality, Cummins serves customers in approximately 190 countries and territories through a network of company-owned and independent distributor facilities and dealerships. The company’s product range includes engines, filtration, emissions solutions, and power systems, all designed to meet the demanding requirements of various industries, including heavy-duty trucking.

Lock Washer 3969460 in Cummins Engines

The Lock Washer 3969460, manufactured by Cummins, is a component in ensuring the stability and reliability of various engine parts. This part is designed to prevent loosening of fasteners due to vibration and dynamic forces, which is essential in maintaining the integrity of the engine’s assembly.

Application in K38 Engines

In the K38 engine series, the Lock Washer 3969460 is utilized in several key areas where secure fastening is paramount. It is commonly found in the engine’s mounting system, ensuring that the engine remains firmly attached to the chassis. Additionally, it is used in the cylinder head assembly, securing bolts that hold the head in place, thereby preventing any potential misalignment or failure.

Application in K50 Engines

Similarly, in the K50 engine series, the Lock Washer 3969460 plays a role in maintaining the structural integrity of the engine. It is employed in the engine’s mounting brackets, ensuring that the engine is securely fastened to the vehicle’s frame. Furthermore, it is used in the lubrication system, securing the oil pan and other related components to prevent leaks and maintain proper oil flow.

Grouping of Engines

Both the K38 and K50 engines benefit from the use of the Lock Washer 3969460 in similar contexts, primarily in areas where vibration and dynamic forces can lead to loosening of fasteners. The commonality in their application underscores the importance of this component in ensuring the longevity and performance of Cummins engines.

Role of Part 3969460 Lock Washer in Engine Systems

In the intricate assembly of engine systems, the Part 3969460 Lock Washer serves a function by ensuring the stability and integrity of various components. When integrated into the assembly of an exchanger, particularly a heat exchanger, this lock washer plays a pivotal role.

Within the heat exchanger, the lock washer is positioned between the fasteners and the components it secures. This placement is essential for preventing the loosening of bolts and nuts that are subject to vibrations and thermal expansions typical in engine operations. By doing so, it maintains the precise alignment and contact pressure necessary for efficient heat transfer between the fluid streams in the exchanger.

Moreover, the lock washer contributes to the overall durability of the heat exchanger by distributing the load exerted by the fasteners more evenly across the surface of the components. This even distribution minimizes the risk of component deformation and ensures that the heat exchanger operates within its designed parameters, enhancing the reliability and performance of the engine system.

Conclusion

In summary, the incorporation of the Part 3969460 Lock Washer in engine systems, especially within the heat exchanger, is a strategic move to uphold the structural integrity and operational efficiency of the components, thereby supporting the seamless functioning of the engine as a whole.