Parts for Caterpillar 3406C – Connecting Rod Section

The connecting rod is one of the most critical components inside the Caterpillar 3406C engine. Acting as the direct link between the piston and the crankshaft, the connecting rod transforms linear piston motion into the rotary motion that drives the crankshaft. Because of the massive stresses in high-horsepower engines like the 3406C, connecting rods and their related hardware must be built to exact specifications to ensure strength, balance, and reliability.

Below is the complete catalog of connecting rods and related parts for the Caterpillar 3406C engine. Each component is designed to meet or exceed OEM quality standards, ensuring durability and performance under demanding operating conditions.

Connecting Rods for Caterpillar 3406C

Direct Injection Wide Taper Connecting Rods
The wide taper connecting rods are engineered for Caterpillar 3406C engines equipped with direct injection systems. The wide taper design distributes stress more evenly across the rod, enhancing durability under heavy loads. These rods are precision-machined for proper balance and alignment, reducing vibration and extending engine life.

Connecting Rod Bolts for Caterpillar 3406C

Bolts for Wide Taper Connecting Rods
Every connecting rod requires two heavy-duty bolts to securely fasten the cap. These bolts are manufactured with high tensile strength to withstand the immense pressures inside the combustion chamber. They are designed specifically for wide taper rods used in the 3406C engine, ensuring a proper fit and secure clamping force.

Standard Connecting Rod Bolts
In addition to bolts for the wide taper rods, standard connecting rod bolts are available for other rod variations within the 3400 series. Like the wide taper bolts, they are built to resist stretching and loosening, providing long-term reliability.

Connecting Rod Nuts for Caterpillar 3406C

Wide Taper Rod Nuts
These nuts are designed to be paired with wide taper connecting rod bolts. Their precise threading and hardened steel construction provide secure fastening and reliable torque retention.

Standard Rod Nuts for 3400 Series Engines
Standard rod nuts are also available for other connecting rods in the 3400 series engine family, including the 3406, 3408, and 3412. Each rod requires two nuts, and their rugged design ensures that the rod cap remains firmly in place during operation.

Connecting Rod Bushings for Caterpillar 3406C

Bushings for Direct Injection Wide Taper Rods
The rod bushing (sometimes referred to as the small-end bearing) provides a smooth, durable surface between the piston pin and the connecting rod. In the Caterpillar 3406C engine, the bushing is 1.88 inches wide, engineered specifically for direct injection wide taper rods. A fresh bushing helps reduce wear on the piston pin and ensures precise rod movement during engine cycles.

Connecting Rod Bearings for Caterpillar 3406C

Bearings are one of the most vital elements in the connecting rod assembly. They allow the rod to rotate smoothly on the crankshaft journal while withstanding extreme forces. Caterpillar 3406C connecting rod bearings are available in both narrow and wide versions, depending on the rod design.

Standard Size Bearings

• Narrow Bearings – Designed for standard narrow taper rods.

• Wide Bearings – Manufactured for wide taper rods, ensuring proper surface area coverage and durability.

Oversize Bearings

As engines wear, the crankshaft journals may need to be machined undersize. To compensate, oversize bearings are available in multiple increments:

• .010 inch oversize – Ideal for lightly machined journals.

• .025 inch oversize – For medium machining requirements.

• .050 inch oversize – For heavily machined journals needing additional bearing material.

Both narrow and wide bearings are available in all three oversize increments, giving engine rebuilders flexibility to restore proper clearances during an overhaul.

Why Choosing the Right Connecting Rod Components Matters

The Caterpillar 3406C is a workhorse engine used in a wide range of applications, from heavy trucks to industrial and marine equipment. In these demanding environments, the connecting rod assembly faces enormous stress. Using high-quality rods, bolts, nuts, bushings, and bearings ensures:

• Reduced risk of catastrophic engine failure caused by rod or bearing failure.

• Improved engine performance due to reduced friction and proper alignment.

• Extended service life for pistons, crankshaft journals, and other related components.

• Lower maintenance costs through reliable, long-lasting parts.

Why Buy Caterpillar 3406C Connecting Rod Parts from Diesel Pro Power

When rebuilding or maintaining a Caterpillar 3406C engine, precision matters. Diesel Pro Power provides engine parts that deliver OEM-quality performance while offering customers peace of mind.

• Trusted by 40,000+ customers worldwide – Our global customer base relies on us for Caterpillar engine parts.

• OEM-quality fit and reliability – Each connecting rod, bearing, and bolt is engineered to meet Caterpillar specifications.

• Fast worldwide shipping – Minimize downtime and get your equipment back in operation quickly.

• Dedicated Caterpillar 3406C catalog – No need to guess or cross-reference endlessly. Our catalog is built specifically for your engine.

• Expert support – Our experienced team can help you identify the right part for your rebuild or repair.