Caterpillar 3412 Connecting Rod Parts Catalog

The Caterpillar 3412 engine is one of the most powerful and respected models in the CAT 3400 family, widely used in heavy-duty equipment, industrial power, and marine propulsion. To keep this high-performance V12 diesel engine running at its best, properly maintained connecting rods and related components are critical. The connecting rod assembly is responsible for transmitting the tremendous forces between the piston and crankshaft, making it one of the most stressed components inside the engine.

Below is the complete catalog of connecting rod components, bushings, bearings, bolts, and nuts available for Caterpillar 3412 engines. All components are engineered to OEM specifications and are trusted by more than 40,000 satisfied customers worldwide.

Connecting Rods for Caterpillar 3412 Engines

Caterpillar 3412 engines have been produced in both pre-combustion and direct injection configurations. Because of this, multiple connecting rod designs exist, each optimized for a specific combustion style and taper geometry.

Straight Rod for Pre-Combustion Engines

This style of connecting rod is designed for older 3412 engines that use a pre-combustion chamber. The rod features a straight design that provides durability and reliable power transfer for engines built before Caterpillar transitioned fully into direct injection.

Narrow Taper Rod – 6 Degree Design

For pre-combustion 3412 engines that require a narrow taper, this rod offers improved clearance and alignment. The 6-degree taper provides smoother piston movement while maintaining the heavy-duty strength required for demanding applications.

Wide Taper Rod for Direct Injection Engines

Later-model Caterpillar 3412 engines use direct injection fuel systems, which require a wide taper connecting rod. This rod is designed to handle the increased combustion pressures and temperature loads associated with direct injection.

Connecting Rod Bolts for Caterpillar 3412

Every connecting rod requires two precision bolts to secure the rod cap to the main body of the rod. These bolts must withstand extreme cyclic stresses as the piston reverses direction thousands of times per minute. OEM-quality rod bolts ensure proper clamping force and prevent catastrophic engine failure caused by bolt fatigue.

Connecting Rod Nuts for Caterpillar 3412

Each rod bolt is paired with a heavy-duty nut to maintain the rod cap’s structural integrity. These specially hardened nuts are designed to handle repeated torque applications during service and rebuilds, ensuring long-term reliability.

Connecting Rod Bushings for Caterpillar 3412

The upper end of each connecting rod is fitted with a bushing that supports the piston pin. Caterpillar 3412 engines use bushings in varying widths depending on the rod type. These bushings reduce friction, absorb impact loads, and help extend the life of both the piston pin and the rod itself.

Straight Rod Bushings

Designed for use with the older straight-style rods, these bushings maintain proper pin alignment and provide smooth pivot action.

Narrow Taper Bushings

These bushings are narrower to fit the 6-degree tapered rod design. Their precision machining ensures correct pin-to-rod clearance, minimizing wear.

Wide Taper Bushings

For direct injection rods, wide bushings are used. These provide a broader surface area to absorb combustion forces and extend service life.

Connecting Rod Bearings for Caterpillar 3412

The lower end of each connecting rod houses the rod bearings, which form the critical interface between the connecting rod and the crankshaft journal. These bearings come in both standard and oversize options to accommodate crankshaft machining during engine overhauls.

Narrow Bearings

Narrow rod bearings are used with older style rods and are available in multiple sizes:

• Standard Size Bearings – For use with an unmodified crankshaft journal.

• Oversize Bearings (.010, .025, .050 inch) – For crankshafts that have been machined undersize during rebuilds.

Wide Bearings

Wide bearings are used with direct injection rods and follow the same sizing availability:

• Standard Size Bearings – Fits the original crankshaft journal size.

• Oversize Bearings (.010, .025, .050 inch) – Available for overhauled crankshafts requiring precise fitment.

These bearings feature specialized alloys for durability, reduced friction, and superior load-carrying capacity under high horsepower applications.

Why Quality Connecting Rod Components Matter

The 3412 engine is built to deliver decades of reliable service when properly maintained. Using OEM-quality connecting rods and related components ensures:

• Extended Engine Life – Proper rod alignment, correct bearing clearance, and durable bushings prevent premature wear.

• Reliable Power Output – Secure connections between piston and crankshaft maintain efficient combustion.

• Reduced Downtime – Precision parts minimize the risk of unexpected failures.

• Compatibility Assurance – Each rod, bearing, and bushing is designed specifically for Caterpillar 3406, 3408, and 3412 engine families.

Why Order Caterpillar 3412 Connecting Rod Parts from Diesel Pro Power

• Trusted by 40,000+ Customers Worldwide – Our reputation is built on consistent quality and customer satisfaction.

• OEM-Spec Components – Every rod, bolt, nut, bearing, and bushing meets or exceeds Caterpillar standards.

• Fast Global Shipping – We deliver parts worldwide to keep operations running with minimal downtime.

• Dedicated 3412 Catalog – Simplified ordering ensures you get the right part for your specific engine build.

• Expert Support – Our technical team can guide you through rod selection, bearing sizing, and bushing replacement.