How does the new head limit valve recession?

The new design exposes less cylinder head material and less valve stem to the exhaust gas flow. The exhaust port itself is designed to prevent turbulent exhaust flow. Collectively the cylinder head design changes provide reduced head bolt torque loading, better valve cooling, increased valve seat contact area, improved valve seat material, directed jacket water flow, and improved exhaust port flow. All of these features aid in preventing excessive valve recession.

G3400 NEW CYLINDER HEAD DESIGN

Can the new cylinder head be retrofit?

Yes, the new cylinder head can be installed on all existing G3408 and G3412 engines. Contact your local Caterpillar Dealer for details.

C AT E R P I L L A R GAS ENGINES
LEXW2610 2002 Caterpillar All rights reserved. Printed in U.S.A.

The G3412 and G3408 engines will incorporate a new cylinder head beginning in summer of 2002. G3406 production with a new cylinder head is planned for 4th quarter 2002.

How has the cylinder head changed?

This completely redesigned head provides more supported length for the valves. A larger portion of the valve stem is supported by the valve guide, therefore the unsupported portion of the valve is shorter. This makes the valves less prone to wear. The cylinder head is 12 mm taller, incorporating more structural walls and changes to the internal layout of passages. This allows higher structural rigidity, improved coolant flow, increased coolant areas, and better intake and exhaust gas flow.

What makes the new cylinder head more rigid?

The new cylinder head incorporates structural improvements such as higher walls between cylinders, larger head bolt bosses, and more gussets to support the walls and bosses. Increased boss diameter and reduced head bolt torque also contribute to the improved structure and reduced distortion of the head. All these features work together to increase the rigidity of the head and its capability to withstand distortions caused by high temperatures during full load operation.

Are there any changes to the cooling capability?

Coolant flow variation is reduced from cylinder to cylinder and within each cylinder due to the structural walls and gussets that direct the coolant more uniformly. Coolant flow velocities are higher and targeted to high stress areas, thus improving heat transfer. Uniform coolant flow and improved heat transfer help maintain a constant operating temperature and component integrity.

G3412 Jacket Water Flow

D
Guided Length Guide Diameter
J/ W

Exhaust Guides
Front

Direction of Water Flow Rear

L L

J/ W

J/ W

Current Design
Head Height
Front

Water flows to front of engine

Exhaust Port
J/ W J/ W

Rear

Overhang

Unsupported Stem Length

C'bore Length

New Design
Water cannot flow to front of engine Uniform flow acts like single cylinder Localized high-water velocities target stressed areas by improving heat transfer

Valve Head Diameter

Current Design