Service manual
Section 8B
8B-6 
8B.2 CUMMINS ENGINE SERIAL NUMBER
The Cummins 4BT3.9 serial number is stamped on the 
front of the engine block, near the fan pulley. Information 
contained in the serial number is required in correspon-
dence with the engine manufacturer.
Figure 8B–2. Cummins engine serial number location.
Supply the engine serial number and/or data tag informa-
tion when communicating about an engine or engine 
components.
8B.3 CUMMINS SPECIFICATIONS AND 
MAINTENANCE INFORMATION
Engine, coolant and oil specifications and maintenance 
information appear in 
Section 2 General Information, 
Specifications, and Maintenance Instructions
.
Note: Detailed Cummins engine service instructions 
(covering disassembly, inspection, internal repair, assem-
bly, adjustment and troubleshooting information) are pro-
vided in the appropriate Cummins engine service 
manual.
8B.4 CUMMINS ENGINE STANDARD 
PRACTICES 
Left and Right Sides of the Engine
Throughout this section, the left or right side of the 
engine is as viewed from the flywheel end.
Cleanliness
Cleanliness is very important during engine repair. Con-
tamination of the engine during repair will reduce the life 
of an engine. Thoroughly clean the engine and engine 
compartment area before attempting to service or repair 
the engine.
DO NOT steam clean the following parts:
• Electrical Components
• Wiring
• Injectors
• Fuel Pump
• Belts and Hoses
• Bearings
During reassembly and inspection, thoroughly clean all 
parts, and, where present, remove burrs and scales.
Gaskets and O-rings
NEVER re-use a gasket or O-ring. Use new gaskets and 
O-rings. Thoroughly clean sealing surfaces before install-
ing a new gasket or O-ring. ALWAYS install new flat-
faced O-rings when servicing hydraulic fittings.
Cover any open ports of high-precision components 
(such as fuel system equipment) exposed by removal or 
disassembly to help prevent the entry of foreign material.
Capscrews and Metric Parts
When replacing capscrews, ALWAYS use a capscrew of 
the same size and strength as the capscrew being 
replaced. Incorrect capscrews can result in engine dam-
age. Return capscrews removed from the engine to their 
original locations.
The Cummins 4BT3.9 engine uses parts that are of met-
ric dimensions. Metric capscrews are described, in milli-
meters, in terms of major thread diameter, distance 
between threads, and overall length.
Metric capscrew dimensions:
Verify that the correct type of part is used at all times.
8B.5 CUMMINS ENGINE COOLING 
SYSTEM
The Cummins engine cooling system is a closed, pres-
surized system that consists of coolant passages in the 
engine, plus the oil cooler, thermostat, water pump, 
hoses, radiator and radiator overflow bottle. The engine 
is cooled by the circulation of coolant through passages 
in the cylinder block and head. Circulation is by thermo-
siphon action, assisted by an impeller-type water pump, 
driven by a fan belt from the crankshaft pulley. The water 
pump bearings are prepacked with a special grease and 
do not require service. Replace a faulty water pump. 
General engine cooling specifications and maintenance 
procedures are listed in S
ection 2 General Information, 
Specifications, and Maintenance Instructions
.
4BT3.9
1137-X0865
MS1150
Front of 
vehicle
Serial number 
location
Length, in millimeters
Distance between threads, in millimeters
Major thread diameter, in millimeters
M8 x 1,25 - 25
Model 3606 • Origin 10/99










