How to Identify a Cummins Engine
by Elizabeth FalwellCummins is an Indiana-based company that manufactures diesel and natural-gas powered engines for medium- and heavy-duty trucks, buses, RVs and industrial-use vehicles. Identifying whether a Cummins engine is installed in your vehicle takes only a few simple steps.
Step 1
Pop your vehicle's hood and locate the engine. Look for the Cummins logo (it's the letter "C" with the word "Cummins" written diagonally across the letter's top left corner).
Step 2
Consult your vehicle's owner's manual to identify whether your vehicle has a Cummins engine. Look for the section regarding engine specifications or parts.
Step 3
Locate your vehicle's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This 17-digit number can be found at the top of your vehicle's dashboard on the driver's side, as close to the front window as possible (it is also printed on most vehicle registration cards). If the sixth digit is a "2" or "3," the vehicle is a Dodge Ram 2500 or 3500. This Dodge model comes with a Cummins engine standard; look at the eighth digit in the VIN sequence to identify exactly what type of Cummins engine is installed.
Step 4
Visit the Cummins products home page and click on the link for "Engines." Select your type of vehicle from the drop-down menu; you'll be able to choose from on- or off-road vehicles, as well as recreational equipment like boats. Doing this will direct you to a new page with information regarding the types of Cummins engines used in the various vehicle types.
Step 5
Locate the eight-digit serial number on your Cummins engine; it is printed on a dataplate affixed to the engine. The exact location of the dataplate varies depending the model engine, yet it's typically on the top or side of the rocker cover or housing unit. This dataplate will also have the engine's model printed on it.
Step 6
Research the engine specifications for your model type (found on the dataplate). The Cummins Diesel Specs website is a good place to turn for engine specification information.
References
Tips
- Visit the Cummins' "QuickServe" website to learn more about your specific engine. This website is operated by Cummins', and allows users to download manuals and service guidelines for their specific engine model.
- Register your Cummins engine with the company to receive product and recall updates. To do so, you will need to provide your name, contact information and engine serial number.
Writer Bio
Elizabeth Falwell has been writing for the TV news industry since 2005. Her work has appeared on WXII 12 News, WMGT 41 News, NewParent.com and multiple parenting blogs. A graduate of the S.I. Newhouse School at Syracuse University, Falwell holds a Master of Science in broadcast journalism.
