Big cam engine

Types of Big Cam Engine

A big cam engine is a type of diesel engine that is primarily used in heavy-duty trucks. It has a camshaft that is larger in diameter, which enables the engine to produce more power and torque. The big cam cummins engine is suitable for long-haul trucking, construction, and agriculture. It is highly reliable and durable under heavy loads. Here are the different types of Big Cam engines:

• Big Cam I:

It was introduced by Cummins in 1974. The big cam 400 cummins engine comes in two versions: the first version is the 855 cubic inch, 14-liter inline-six-cylinder engine. The second version is the 6-cylinder engine. It was designed to address the noise problem that was produced by the N14 engine. The Big Cam I engine features a two-piece camshaft with a lower camshaft drive gear. The firing order of the cylinders is 1-5-3-6-2-4. It is suitable for heavy-duty applications.

• Big Cam II:

The Big Cam II was introduced by Cummins in 1979. It was designed as an update to the Big Cam I engine. The Big Cam II engine comes in various versions, including the NTC-290 and NTC-350. It has a displacement of 14 liters or 855 cubic inches. The Big Cam II engine features a one-piece camshaft, which is an upgrade from the two-piece camshaft found in the Big Cam I engine. It has a firing order of 1-5-3-6-2-4. The Big Cam II engine is used in dump trucks, cement mixers, and agricultural equipment.

• Big Cam III:

The big cam cummins engine was introduced in 1985 by Cummins. It was designed as an upgrade to the Big Cam II engine. The Big Cam III engine comes in various versions, including the NTC-300, NTC-350, NTC-400, NTC-450, and NTC-475. The Big Cam III engine has a displacement of 14 liters or 855 cubic inches. It features a top-stop injector and PT fuel system. The firing order of the cylinders is 1-5-3-6-2-4. The Big Cam III engine is suitable for construction, mining, and marine applications.

• Big Cam IV:

The Big Cam IV engine was introduced in 1990. It was designed as an upgrade to the Big Cam III engine. The Big Cam IV engine comes in various versions, including the NTC-290, NTC-350, NTC-400, NTC-450, and NTC-475. The Big Cam IV engine has a displacement of 14 liters or 855 cubic inches. It features an improved top-stop injector and PT fuel system. The firing order of the cylinders is 1-5-3-6-2-4. The Big Cam IV engine is suitable for heavy-duty applications.

Specification & Maintenance of Big Cam Engine

Every big cam engine has its specification and maintenance. Here are some of them:

• 1. Big Cam 1:

Cummins first introduced the 350 big cam cummins engine in 1974. With 855 cubic inch displacement and 14L, it was designed for heavy-duty on-highway trucks and construction equipment. The Big Cam 1 engine has the following specifications:

• Horsepower: 290-350 hp at 2100 RPM
• Torque: 925-1150 lb-ft at 1300 RPM
• Cylinder bore: 5.5 in (140 mm)
• Piston stroke: 6.0 in (152 mm)
• Compression ratio: 15:1
• Oil system capacity: 11 US gallons (42 L)
• Cooling system capacity: 20 US gallons (76 L)

Here are some tips for maintaining the Big Cam 1 engine:

• 1. Change the oil and filters regularly to prevent premature wear and tear. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the type of oil and filter to use.
• 2. Check the coolant level regularly and top it off when necessary. Also, ensure the coolant's freeze point is appropriate for the climate.
• 3. Keep the air intake system clean, including the air filter and ducting. Replace the air filter when it's dirty.
• 4. Inspect the turbocharger for leaks, and ensure the exhaust and intake systems are not restricted. Clean the turbocharger regularly to maintain proper operation.
• 5. Check the fuel system, including the injectors, fuel lines, and pump, for leaks and proper pressure. Replace fuel filters regularly to prevent contaminants from entering the system.
• 6. Regularly adjust the valves and injectors to maintain optimal performance and fuel efficiency.
• 7. Inspect the belts and hoses for wear, cracks, or damage, and replace them as necessary. Ensure proper belt tension according to the manufacturer's specifications.
• 8. Monitor the oil pressure and coolant temperature gauges regularly to detect any problems early and prevent further damage.
• 2. Big Cam 2:

Cummins introduced the Big Cam 2 engine in 1976. It was an upgraded version of the previous model, with improved performance and reliability. The Big Cam 2 engine specifications are as follows:

• Horsepower: 350-450 hp at 2100 RPM
• Torque: 1150-1550 lb-ft at 1300 RPM
• Cylinder bore: 5.5 in (140 mm)
• Piston stroke: 6.0 in (152 mm)
• Compression ratio: 15:1
• Oil system capacity: 11 US gallons (42 L)
• Cooling system capacity: 20 US gallons (76 L)

Here are some maintenance tips for the Big Cam 2 engine:

• 1. Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule for regular oil and filter changes, valve adjustments, and other services.
• 2. Use high-quality oil and filters that meet or exceed the engine's requirements. Low-quality oil and filters can lead to premature wear and reduce engine performance.
• 3. Check the cooling system regularly for leaks, damage, and proper coolant levels. Ensure the correct coolant mixture for the climate.
• 4. Inspect the air intake and exhaust systems regularly for restrictions, leaks, or damage. Clean or replace air filters as needed.
• 5. Monitor the engine's performance, including oil pressure, temperature, and power output, using the instrument panel gauges.

How to Choose Big Cam Engine

• Consider the vehicle's purpose:

When choosing a big cam engine for a vehicle, it is important to consider the purpose of the vehicle. For instance, if the vehicle is a racing car, the engine should be powerful and high-performance to improve speed and acceleration. On the other hand, if the vehicle is a truck or SUV, the engine power should be enough to carry heavy loads and tow trailers.

• Set realistic power goals:

Set realistic power goals when choosing a big cam engine for the vehicle. Consider the horsepower targets for the engine that will match the vehicle's needs. This will help to avoid the need for major modifications that may lead to reduced reliability.

• Consider the vehicle's weight:

When choosing a big cam engine for a vehicle, consider the vehicle's weight. A heavy vehicle will require a higher engine power to help in acceleration and maintaining speed. On the other hand, a lighter vehicle requires less engine power because it has a higher power-to-weight ratio.

• Factor in transmission and differential:

When choosing a big cam engine for a vehicle, consider the transmission and differential. This is because they play a critical role in the power delivery to the wheels. Ensure that the transmission and differential are compatible with the engine power. A high-performance engine requires a heavy-duty transmission and differential to handle the increased power.

• Consider future maintenance and support:

When choosing a big cam engine, it is important to consider future maintenance and support. This involves researching the availability of spare parts and maintenance support. Select a big cam engine that has spare parts available and is easy to maintain. This will help to reduce downtime in case of engine problems.

• Consult with professionals:

It is important to consult with professionals when choosing a big cam engine for a vehicle. Talk to mechanics, engine builders, and other professionals to get advice on the best engine that suits the vehicle's needs. They can also provide information on the engine's performance, reliability, and compatibility with the vehicle.

How to DIY and Replace Big Cam Engine

Replacing a Big Cam engine is a complex task that requires expertise and specialized tools. However, for individuals who want to try the replacement process, here are some steps to help with the process. Replacing a Big Cam engine is a complex task that requires expertise and specialized tools. However, for individuals who want to try the replacement process, here are some steps to help with the process.

• Identifying the Type of Big Cam Engine

Before doing any replacement, it is important to know the type of engine in the vehicle. The user manual provided by the vehicle manufacturer comes in handy. It contains information about the type of engine in the vehicle. It is important to ensure that the new engine fits the vehicle transmission system.

• Gather the Right Tools

Replacing a Big Cam engine requires some tools. These tools include screwdrivers, wrenches, sockets, ratchets, engine hoist, and jack stands. It is important to ensure that all the tools and equipment required for the replacement are available before commencing the process.

• Drain Fluids

Before removing the engine, it is advisable to drain all the fluids. Remove the engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, and fuel from the old engine. The process of draining fluids ensures that the process of removing the old engine is clean and safe.

• Remove the Old Engine

First, disconnect the battery. Remove the transmission system. Disconnect the exhaust and remove it from the engine. Disconnect the driveshaft. Remove the engine wiring harness and remove the engine mounts. After that, lift the engine using a hoist and take it out of the vehicle.

• Install the New Engine

Before installing the new engine, it is important to ensure that it fits the transmission system. The process of installing the new engine is the reverse of removing the old engine. Mount the new engine, install the engine wiring harness, install the driveshaft, and connect the transmission system.

• Add Fluids

After installing the new engine, it is important to add fluids such as oil, coolant, transmission fluid, and fuel to the system. This process ensures that the new engine runs effectively.

Q and A

Q: What is the difference between the Small Cam and Big Cam Cummins?

A: The difference between the small cam and big cam cummins is in the size of the camshaft. The big cam 400 cummins engine has a larger camshaft compared to the small cam. The big cam engine was produced in the 1970s and 1980s. It was used for on-highway and off-highway applications. The big cam Cummins engine was designed to be more powerful, efficient, and reliable than the small cam engine. The big cam Cummins engine has a displacement of up to 14 liters and can generate up to 600 horsepower. The small cam engine has a displacement of up to 5.9 liters and can generate up to 160 horsepower. In summary, the big cam engine is more powerful and efficient than the small cam engine.

Q: What kind of vehicles use the Big Cam Cummins engine?

A: The big cam 400 cummins engine is used in a variety of on-highway and off-highway applications, including heavy-duty semi-trucks, construction equipment, marine vessels, and agricultural machinery.

Q: What are the key advantages of the Big Cam Cummins engine?

A: The key advantages of the Big Cam Cummins engine include increased horsepower and torque, improved fuel efficiency, and overall reliability and durability.