Cummins ISM Connecting Rod Catalog

The Cummins ISM engine is a trusted mid-range heavy-duty diesel powerplant used in industrial, vocational, and on-highway applications. To keep it performing at its peak, maintaining the integrity of its internal components is critical—especially the connecting rods and bearings. These parts play a vital role in ensuring smooth power delivery, reduced friction, and long-term durability.

At Diesel Pro Power, we provide high-quality connecting rod bearing sets for the Cummins ISM engine, as well as compatible coverage for related platforms like the L10, M11, and QSM engines. With over 40,000 satisfied customers worldwide, our catalog offers only the most reliable parts, backed by fast shipping and expert support.

Connecting Rod Bearings for Cummins ISM Engines

The connecting rod bearings in your Cummins ISM engine are essential wear components. They sit between the connecting rod and crankshaft journals, allowing the rod to pivot smoothly as the piston travels up and down in the cylinder.

Over time, bearing surfaces can wear due to high loads, oil breakdown, or contamination. When tolerances increase, engine performance suffers—manifesting as lower oil pressure, knocking sounds, or even catastrophic rod failure. Replacing these bearings with precision-machined sets is the key to a proper overhaul.

Standard Connecting Rod Bearing Sets

Our standard size connecting rod bearing sets for Cummins ISM engines are designed to restore original clearances between the connecting rod and crankshaft.

• Application Coverage: Fits ISM engines as well as L10, M11, and QSM models.

• Design: Includes both the upper and lower bearing halves to service one connecting rod.

• Purpose: Ideal when your crankshaft journals measure within OEM specifications and do not require machining.

These bearings provide factory-fresh fitment and are manufactured to withstand the demanding pressures and high RPM conditions of heavy-duty operation.

Oversize 0.010” Connecting Rod Bearings

When crankshaft journals become worn or scored, machining may be required. After grinding, oversize bearings ensure proper clearance is restored.

• Application Coverage: Designed for Cummins ISM, L10, M11, and QSM engines.

• Fitment: 0.010” oversize dimension, perfect for crankshafts that have been ground down by 0.010”.

• Benefits: Maintains proper oil film thickness, reduces metal-to-metal contact, and restores engine performance.

Using the correct oversize bearings after machining prevents premature wear and extends the lifespan of your ISM engine.

Oversize 0.020” Connecting Rod Bearings

For crankshafts requiring heavier machining, our 0.020” oversize bearing sets provide the solution.

• Application Coverage: Compatible with Cummins ISM as well as related Cummins engine families including L10, M11, and QSM.

• Fitment: 0.020” oversize design for journals ground down by 0.020”.

• Use Case: Typically used during major overhauls where crankshaft repair has been necessary.

These bearing sets ensure that even heavily reconditioned crankshafts maintain reliable oil film and proper clearances for safe, efficient operation.

Why Choose Diesel Pro Power for ISM Connecting Rod Bearings?

• Global Customer Base: Trusted by over 40,000 satisfied customers worldwide.

• Fast Shipping: We ship orders quickly, ensuring minimal downtime for your Cummins-powered equipment.

• Comprehensive Coverage: Bearing sets available in standard and oversize dimensions to meet every rebuild need.

• Expert Support: Our team understands Cummins engines and can help identify the right bearings for your specific ISM application.

Common Applications of Cummins ISM Engines

The ISM engine is widely used in:

• Vocational Trucks: Cement mixers, dump trucks, refuse haulers.

• Transit & Coach Buses: Reliable power in high-duty cycle operations.

• Industrial Equipment: Pumps, compressors, and stationary applications.

• Construction Machinery: Excavators and loaders requiring mid-range heavy-duty performance.

With these demanding applications, proper connecting rod bearings are critical to maintain engine longevity.

Signs Your ISM Connecting Rod Bearings Need Replacement

• Drop in oil pressure at idle or under load

• Audible knocking from the lower end of the engine

• Metal shavings present in the oil filter or oil pan

• Excessive wear revealed during routine inspection

• Crankshaft journals showing scoring or discoloration

Replacing bearings at the first signs of wear prevents catastrophic failures, protecting the crankshaft and reducing costly downtime.

Installation & Maintenance Tips

• Always measure crankshaft journals before ordering bearings.

• Use standard bearings only if the crankshaft is within OEM specs.

• If journals are ground, match the bearing oversize (0.010” or 0.020”).

• Clean oil passages thoroughly before reassembly.

• Use proper torque values and follow Cummins service manual specifications.

• Prime the lubrication system before engine startup after overhaul.

Proper installation ensures maximum bearing life and consistent performance.