Cummins ISL Connecting Rods & Bearing Sets

Connecting rods and bearings play a vital role in the durability and smooth operation of Cummins ISL engines. These components form the critical link between the piston assembly and the crankshaft, translating the combustion force into rotational energy. Over time, due to constant high loads and lubrication demands, connecting rod bearings and cap screws require inspection, service, and replacement. Diesel Pro Power supplies a complete selection of Cummins ISL connecting rod parts, trusted by over 40,000 satisfied customers worldwide.

Importance of Connecting Rod Bearings in Cummins ISL Engines

The ISL platform is a heavy-duty engine widely used in marine, industrial, and power generation applications. Its connecting rod bearings act as sacrificial wear surfaces, protecting the crankshaft journal and ensuring the rod moves smoothly during each combustion cycle.

When these bearings wear excessively, symptoms can include:

• Lower oil pressure readings

• Knocking sounds under load

• Increased vibration

• Metallic debris in the oil

Replacing connecting rod bearings before failure is essential to avoid crankshaft damage, which is far more costly to repair.

Bearing Set Options for Cummins ISL Engines

Diesel Pro Power carries several bearing size options to meet standard rebuilds as well as undersized crankshaft journal requirements after machining. Each bearing set includes both the upper and lower shell needed to service one connecting rod.

Standard Connecting Rod Bearings for Cummins ISL

Standard bearings are used when the crankshaft journals remain within factory tolerances and no regrinding has been performed. These are the most common choice during preventive maintenance or a top-end refresh.

• Designed for Cummins ISL and related 6C, 6CT, 6CTA, ISC, and QSC platforms

• Manufactured with precision to provide long-term oil film stability

• Supplied as a matched upper and lower bearing set for one rod

Oversize Bearings – 0.25 mm

When a crankshaft has been machined by 0.25 mm, an oversize bearing set is required to restore proper oil clearance. This ensures that lubrication is maintained without excessive play or risk of seizure.

• Oversize by 0.25 mm for ground crankshaft journals

• Engineered for use in ISL and other compatible Cummins mid-range engines

• Offers the same durability and fitment as standard bearings

Oversize Bearings – 0.50 mm

For crankshafts requiring further machining, Diesel Pro Power offers a 0.50 mm oversize option. This allows the continued use of a reconditioned crankshaft without sacrificing reliability.

• Oversize by 0.50 mm for maximum correction

• Precision fit to reduce wear and extend service intervals

• Meets Cummins OEM specifications for ISL connecting rods

Connecting Rod Cap Screws for Cummins ISL

Every connecting rod cap is secured with heavy-duty bolts or cap screws designed to withstand extreme combustion forces. These fasteners are not intended for repeated reuse. Each time a connecting rod cap is removed, new bolts should be installed to ensure proper torque retention and prevent rod cap failure.

• Designed specifically for Cummins ISL and QSL engines

• Manufactured from hardened alloy for high tensile strength

• Critical to maintaining rod alignment under full engine load

Neglecting to replace connecting rod bolts can lead to catastrophic engine failure, including thrown rods and crankcase damage. Always install new fasteners during rebuilds or bearing replacement.

Applications of Cummins ISL Connecting Rod Components

The ISL engine family powers a wide range of applications where reliability and efficiency are non-negotiable:

• Marine engines – propulsion systems, auxiliary power units, and commercial vessels

• Industrial equipment – loaders, cranes, drilling rigs, and compressors

• Power generation – standby and continuous-duty generator sets

• Transit & vocational vehicles – buses, refuse trucks, and specialty equipment

In each of these applications, connecting rod components are exposed to heavy stress and must be kept in top condition.

Why Choose Diesel Pro Power for Cummins ISL Connecting Rod Parts?

• Global supply network – parts shipped fast worldwide

• 40,000+ satisfied customers – trusted by marine, industrial, and power professionals

• OEM-quality replacements – precision fit for Cummins ISL, ISC, QSC, 6C, and 6CT engines

• Expert support – team ready to assist with component selection and rebuild planning