Anything for more power out of my CAT 3126??
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Joined: Mar 2009
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My .02 - looks like time for a engine swap to a 8.3 cummins.
Some motor homes have these engines and are running 350hp/1050ftlbs. Those are the newer motors. They do come in mechanical options also. Slightly less power put that is easy to fix. P7100 pump.
Some motor homes have these engines and are running 350hp/1050ftlbs. Those are the newer motors. They do come in mechanical options also. Slightly less power put that is easy to fix. P7100 pump.
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Joined: Dec 2018
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I know your pain. I drive a 330 Pete boom truck with the 3126e & a 10sp Eaton. I have put about 30K on it in the last 5 years. It has always been terribly underpowered for the 47K empty weight of the truck. So disappointed after I drove it up to AK from IN that I took it to Peterbilt and then to Cat just to make sure there wasn't something wrong with the motor. Unfortunately there wasn't, and neither recommended any mods because the motor is already pushing 330hp and that was the max it could handle. I will say it has been reliable as I pull the guts out of it almost daily in the summer getting to our job sites on the hillside. Looks like we might be able to replace it this year. Hoping for 425hp+ and a jake.
have you towed more than 20 tons?
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Joined: Jan 2019
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so my best bet if i want thing to really to pull these loads with no problem is an engine swap
Idk I have spent alot of time and money customizing this truck just the way i want it. i hate to sell it just cause lack of power. I'll try and get a good pic of it for ya's to see
Idk I have spent alot of time and money customizing this truck just the way i want it. i hate to sell it just cause lack of power. I'll try and get a good pic of it for ya's to see
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Joined: Feb 2022
Posts: 124
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Upgrading medium-duty engines can be challenging, and modifications like programmers can sometimes affect reliability.
Given your investment in the truck, an engine swap might seem serious, but it could provide the performance you need. Alternatively, considering a new Kenworth with a more powerful engine might be a good investment
Given your investment in the truck, an engine swap might seem serious, but it could provide the performance you need. Alternatively, considering a new Kenworth with a more powerful engine might be a good investment
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Joined: Dec 2008
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From: vermont
Upgrading medium-duty engines can be challenging, and modifications like programmers can sometimes affect reliability.
Given your investment in the truck, an engine swap might seem serious, but it could provide the performance you need. Alternatively, considering a new Kenworth with a more powerful engine might be a good investment
Given your investment in the truck, an engine swap might seem serious, but it could provide the performance you need. Alternatively, considering a new Kenworth with a more powerful engine might be a good investment
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Joined: Feb 2022
Posts: 124
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"The mini Kenworth semi with a miniature Cummins turbodiesel is indeed a cool project. The fact that Cummins built a custom engine specifically for this guy shows the level of commitment behind the project.
While some might argue it's a lot of money to spend on what is essentially a ""toy,"" I can see the appeal. If the owner is using it for advertising purposes for his trucking company, it could be a clever way to write off the expenses as a business investment.
I get that some might view it as an extravagant expense, but we all have our own interests and ways of spending our money. For some, it's cars, trucks, or other custom builds. For others, it might be collecting rare items or investing in unique experiences. At the end of the day, if it brings joy and serves a purpose, why not?"
While some might argue it's a lot of money to spend on what is essentially a ""toy,"" I can see the appeal. If the owner is using it for advertising purposes for his trucking company, it could be a clever way to write off the expenses as a business investment.
I get that some might view it as an extravagant expense, but we all have our own interests and ways of spending our money. For some, it's cars, trucks, or other custom builds. For others, it might be collecting rare items or investing in unique experiences. At the end of the day, if it brings joy and serves a purpose, why not?"
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