Caterpillar 3406B Connecting Rods & Related Components

The connecting rod is one of the most critical components inside a Caterpillar 3406B engine. It links the piston to the crankshaft, translating the linear motion of the piston into the rotary motion that drives the crank. Because of the immense stresses and high-temperature environment in which it operates, the connecting rod and its related components—bolts, nuts, bushings, and bearings—must be built to precise specifications and maintained with OEM-quality replacement parts.

At Diesel Pro Power, we carry a complete selection of connecting rod assemblies and components for Caterpillar 3406B engines, ensuring you can service your engine with confidence and maintain peak performance. With 40,000+ satisfied customers worldwide, our reputation is built on supplying durable, OEM-quality replacement parts that ship fast and fit right the first time.

Complete Catalog of 3406B Connecting Rod Parts

Connecting Rod Assemblies for Caterpillar 3406B

• Straight Rod (Pre-Combustion Style)
  The straight rod design was used in older pre-combustion Caterpillar 3406B configurations. It delivers strong, balanced performance and is ideal for engines operating under steady loads.

• Narrow Taper Rod (6 Degrees, Pre-Combustion Style)
  The 6-degree narrow taper rod provides additional durability and smoother motion for pre-combustion style 3406B engines. Its design reduces stress concentrations, helping extend the life of pistons and bearings.

• Wide Taper Rod (Direct Injection)
  Caterpillar 3406B direct injection engines often use the wide taper rod design. This stronger taper improves load distribution and withstands the increased pressures of direct injection combustion.

Each of these connecting rods is manufactured to OEM specifications, ensuring strength, precise fitment, and proper balance during operation.

Connecting Rod Bolts & Nuts

The bolts and nuts are what secure the connecting rod cap to the rod itself, holding the bearing and crank journal firmly in place.

• Connecting Rod Bolts for 3406B
  Each connecting rod requires two heavy-duty bolts. Designed to resist stretching and vibration loosening, these bolts are engineered to maintain clamping force under the extreme pressures of Caterpillar diesel operation.

• Connecting Rod Nuts for 3406B
  Two nuts are used per connecting rod. These specialized Caterpillar nuts are precision-machined to mate with the bolts, ensuring consistent torque and safe operation.

Replacing bolts and nuts is critical during a rebuild. Old fasteners may suffer fatigue or loss of elasticity, increasing the risk of rod failure. Diesel Pro Power supplies only new, high-quality replacements that meet Caterpillar standards.

Connecting Rod Bushings

Bushings support the small end of the rod, where the piston pin passes through. Caterpillar 3406B bushings are designed for wear resistance and proper lubrication flow.

• Straight Rod Bushings – Designed for older pre-combustion style straight rods.

• Narrow Taper Rod Bushings – Sized for 6-degree taper rods, with a narrower width for precise fitment.

• Wide Taper Rod Bushings – Designed for direct injection rods with a wider footprint, offering increased durability under high-pressure loads.

Installing the correct bushing ensures smooth operation of the piston pin and minimizes wear across both piston and rod assemblies.

Connecting Rod Bearings

Rod bearings are critical to the smooth motion of the crankshaft and are manufactured in both narrow and wide bearing designs depending on rod style.

Standard Size Bearings

• Standard narrow and wide rod bearings are available for stock rebuilds where the crankshaft journals are still within standard specifications.

Oversize Bearings

For crankshafts that have been ground undersize during machining, oversize bearings provide the necessary compensation to restore proper clearance. Options include:

• Oversize 0.010"

• Oversize 0.025"

• Oversize 0.050"

By offering multiple oversize options in both narrow and wide designs, Diesel Pro Power makes it possible to precisely match your crankshaft’s condition with the correct bearing set.

Why Correct Connecting Rod Parts Matter for the Caterpillar 3406B

The Caterpillar 3406B is renowned for its durability, but the connecting rods face some of the harshest operating conditions of any engine component. Using the wrong rod, bushing, or bearing can lead to:

• Excessive vibration and imbalance

• Premature wear on pistons and crankshaft journals

• Risk of catastrophic rod failure

This is why technicians and rebuild specialists insist on OEM-quality replacements when servicing Caterpillar 3406B connecting rods. Every component in this catalog is manufactured to match Caterpillar engineering standards for weight, metallurgy, and balance.

Benefits of Ordering Caterpillar 3406B Connecting Rod Parts from Diesel Pro Power

• Proven Quality: Every rod, bearing, and bushing is engineered for durability and precision.

• Dedicated 3406B Catalog: Simplifies ordering by ensuring correct part fitment without confusion.

• Worldwide Shipping: Fast delivery keeps downtime to a minimum.

• Expert Technical Support: Our team can help confirm the right rod style, bushing width, or bearing oversize for your rebuild.

• 40,000+ Customers Served: A trusted partner for fleets, ship operators, and repair shops worldwide.