CUMMINS RESPONDS to Dowl Pin Problem!

[mikepvg]

Don't know what happened to yesterday's thread, but here it is again. I'm very encouraged by Cummins response & we now know when the "blind hole" correction has been production line implemented.

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Thanks very much for your email messages on the Dodge ISB gear cover dowel pin.

We have also been reading the TDR messages that customers have been sending in on the subject and a review the dowel pin issue has been done by Cummins. This is how we know the issue today:

The timing pin diameter from the supplier and the hole drilled for the pin, are designed to be 'press fit' dimensions. In some rare cases, the supplied timing pin dimension and the drilled hole dimension, may not provide the correct 'press fit'. During assembly line manufacturing, it is impossible to determine the amount of 'press fit' between the pin and the drilled hole, once the pin is installed into the bore.

A few of the pins have not had the correct 'press fit' in the drilled hole and have worked out of the hole. This does cause extensive damage to the gears and gear cover. The percentage of failure is very, very low and did not justify a major campaign of all engines. If an unexpected failure should occur during the warranty period of the engine, the repair will be handled under normal warranty practices.

Early in 1998 the gear cover was changed to a 'blind hole' design, which would not let the dowel pin move out of the bore. If you have a great fear of this pin coming out, we suggest discussing this issue with your local Dodge dealer or Cummins distributor, to determine the appropriate action in each situation.

The pin itself can be replaced if desired or Locktite can be used to hold it in place, without having to replace the pin or gear housing assembly.

Inspection and securing of the timing pin:

1. Remove the damper, pulley and gear cover from front of engine.
2. Tap on the dowel pin with a flat punch to insure that it is seated in the bore.
3. Clean all the oil from area with solvent and dry completely.
4. Apply some wicking type Locktite on the dowel pin and housing and let the Locktite cure.
5. Reinstall the cover with a new seal and gasket.
6. Reinstall damper and pulley.

We hope this helps you understand the dowel issue better.

Thank you for your interest in Cummins power or products. Please let us know if you need assistance in locating the nearest Cummins-authorized distributor or dealer. Please feel free to use our International Dealer Locator: (http://www.cummins.com/partserv/intro.html) found on the Customer Assistance page of the Cummins website (www.cummins.com).

Let us know if have other questions, or if away from your computer, feel free to call us toll free at 1-800-DIESELS (343-7357).

Regards,
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Powermaster
Customer Assistance Center
Cummins Inc.
Email: powermaster@cummins.com
Ref: CAC ID

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My response to the above Cummins' email is as follows:
> Thank you very much for responding to my email & supplying the technical
> advice.
> That is light years ahead of not acknowledging the issue & will probably
> save many a Cummins owner some mighty big repair bills & is a very positive
> step in nuturing Cummins loyalty.
>
> However, I not sure if I understand Cummins' stance of "Out of warranty=Out
> of luck".
> I will post it immediately on the TDR site for all to read & appreciate.
>
> Personally, I have implemented a similiar type of "fix" (like many others) &
> have fabricated a "washer-tab" style of blocking cover to cover the dowl pin
> which would prevent it from backing out. This washer-tab is held in place by
> the immediately adjacent bolt to the dowl pin.
> Does Cummins have any objections or technical comments on this method?
>
> Many more Cummins owners are drilling a hole in the actual timing case
> adjacent to the dowl pin & tapping in a set screw to "block" or "hold" the
> dowl pin in place. This method is more popular due to the fact that the
> timing cover does not have to be removed. Of course there is a possibility
> (with this method) to contaminate the inside of the timing gears with
> aluminum from the drilling.
> Does Cummins have any objections or technical comments on this method?
>
> Your help is greatly appreciated!
> Mike Nowicki


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94 2500HD 4X4 5sp w/GearVendors O.D. 4:10 L.S.D., K&N Oval w/ Pre-Filter, Straight Exhaust, Geno's Fumotovalve, AW-Direct Idle Controller, DiPricol Boost/Pyro/Fuel w/ Kevlar BSS line, Mag-Hytec Rear, 126K miles. Halon Protected, NRA Member. V1=Anti-"pinch" protection. KDP 125,700-NM-WT Insurance