Cummins KTA 38 Engine Parts for Canada - Rebuild Kit Section

Cummins KTA38 Engine Overhaul Kits – Complete Rebuild Solutions by CPL

The Cummins KTA38 is a heavy-duty industrial and marine workhorse, known for delivering high torque and reliability in some of the most demanding applications. Whether powering offshore drilling rigs, mining haulers, marine vessels, or locomotive systems, this 38-liter engine requires precise maintenance to ensure long-term dependability. When it’s time for an overhaul, Diesel Pro Power offers a range of complete rebuild kits designed for exact compatibility with Cummins KTA38 engines by CPL number and compression ratio.

Our Cummins KTA38 inframe overhaul kits contain all critical components needed for a thorough engine rebuild, and they are available for multiple CPLs with both 13.9:1 and 14.5:1 compression ratio configurations. Each rebuild kit is built to meet or exceed OEM specifications, providing a reliable solution for extending engine life and restoring optimal performance.

What Is Included in a Cummins KTA38 Overhaul Kit?

Each inframe rebuild kit for the KTA38 includes components that allow for a full cylinder refresh and supporting hardware to reseal critical internal systems. These kits generally include:

• Cylinder liners (wet sleeves)

• Pistons (1-piece or 2-piece, depending on CPL)

• Piston rings

• Piston pins and retainers

• Connecting rod bearings

• Main bearings

• Thrust washers

• Cylinder head gaskets

• Upper and lower gasket sets

By including all of these items in one comprehensive package, Diesel Pro Power’s overhaul kits reduce the time and guesswork involved in sourcing individual components, ensuring maximum compatibility and ease of installation.

Choosing the Correct KTA38 Overhaul Kit by Compression Ratio

The compression ratio is a key characteristic in diesel engine performance, affecting fuel efficiency, combustion pressure, and overall torque output. Cummins KTA38 kits are available in two primary compression ratios:

13.9:1 Compression Ratio

These kits are suited for engines with a medium compression configuration and are commonly found in heavy-duty industrial equipment where balanced fuel efficiency and durability are desired. The pistons used in this setup are designed for efficient combustion and long service life in high-load environments.

Compatible CPL Numbers: 1251, 1495, 1496, 1497, 1498, 1541, 1542, 1543, 2163, 2166, 2312, 2313, 6225

14.5:1 Compression Ratio

Higher compression kits like these are built for maximum combustion efficiency. Engines with this configuration may be used in high-altitude or marine applications, where strong power density is essential. These pistons are engineered to handle elevated cylinder pressures without compromising structural integrity.

Compatible CPL Numbers: 150, 179, 228, 229, 275, 296, 478, 501, 505, 521, 693, 824, 851, 852, 864, 866, 869, 876, 877, 889, 1299, 1300

Why Compression Ratio Matters

Compression ratio refers to the volume inside the cylinder when the piston is at the bottom of its stroke compared to when it is at the top. A 14.5:1 ratio means the volume compresses down to 1/14.5 of its original volume, while 13.9:1 compresses slightly less. Higher ratios generally improve thermal efficiency but may require components built to withstand greater stress.

Choosing the correct compression ratio is crucial when replacing pistons and liners, as mismatched components can result in poor engine performance, excessive wear, or even catastrophic failure.

Additional Parts for a Complete Rebuild and Maintenance

While an inframe kit addresses the heart of the engine, other components are often replaced at the same time to maximize the value of the overhaul. Diesel Pro Power offers a full range of supporting parts and tools:

Crankshaft Seal Kits – Rear and Front

To prevent oil leaks at either end of the crankshaft, a proper seal is essential. Rear and front crankshaft seal kits include the seal and installation sleeve. Replacing these during an overhaul prevents future oil loss and potential contamination of engine internals.

Oil Filters

Oil filters should always be replaced during a rebuild. These spin-on style filters remove contaminants that accumulate during engine operation. A fresh filter ensures that new components are protected from wear caused by abrasive particles in circulating oil.

Fuel Filters & Water Separators

Replacing both fuel filters and water separators helps protect injectors and pump components from fuel contamination. Marine and industrial diesel engines often operate in environments with variable fuel quality, so maintaining these filters is essential.

Turbo Mounting and Exhaust Gaskets

An engine overhaul is the perfect time to reseal your turbo system and exhaust manifold. New gaskets prevent boost loss and exhaust leaks that can harm performance and increase emissions.

Valve Adjustment Tools

Feeler gauges calibrated to 0.002"–0.025" are essential for accurate valve lash adjustment. Improper valve clearance can result in power loss, overheating, or premature wear.

Rebuild Tools & Accessories for KTA38 Engines

To ensure that installation is performed accurately and safely, Diesel Pro Power offers a curated set of engine tools specifically suited for Cummins and Detroit Diesel applications.

Piston Ring Assembly Tool

This tool simplifies the process of installing rings onto pistons without damage. Correct ring orientation and spacing are vital to combustion efficiency and oil control.

Fuel and Oil Filter Wrenches

These adjustable wrenches allow easy removal and installation of large filters, reducing the risk of damaging threads or seals during maintenance.

Radiator Cleaner

Once the engine has been rebuilt, flushing the radiator system is a smart precaution. This removes any sludge, scale, or contaminants that may have built up, helping prevent overheating and ensuring proper coolant flow.

Temperature Switch and Engine Monitoring Components

A key part of engine longevity is temperature management. Temperature switches designed for Cummins KTA38 engines typically close at 205°F and activate engine alarms or shut-down systems. Diesel Pro also supplies a full range of 12V and 24V gauges, both mechanical and electrical, for ongoing engine monitoring.

Mechanical and Electric Gauges Include:

• Oil Pressure Gauges

• Coolant Temperature Gauges

• Tachometers

• Hour Meters

• Voltage Indicators

These gauges help operators monitor real-time engine health, which is especially important for high-stakes applications like offshore drilling or marine transport.

Applications of the Cummins KTA38 Engine

The KTA38 is one of the most widely used engines in the Cummins high-horsepower lineup. With its rugged design, this 12-cylinder, 38-liter engine is built for both stationary and mobile equipment across the following industries:

• Marine propulsion and auxiliary power

• Mining haul trucks and loaders

• Oil and gas drilling platforms

• Locomotives and rail maintenance vehicles

• Power generation in remote areas

• Construction and dewatering pumps

Each of these demanding environments requires an engine capable of running long hours under heavy load, often in harsh climates and isolated conditions. This makes reliability and long-term durability a non-negotiable requirement for parts selection during a rebuild.

Why Choose Diesel Pro Power for Your KTA38 Overhaul?

With over 40,000 satisfied customers, Diesel Pro Power is a global leader in supplying heavy-duty diesel parts. Our overhaul kits are engineered for exact CPL matching and compression ratio alignment, helping eliminate compatibility issues and installation delays. Here’s why engine professionals and fleet managers choose us:

• All kits are assembled using premium components

• Fast shipping worldwide

• Expert technical support

• Parts stocked for current and legacy CPLs

• Detailed product descriptions and diagrams

Whether you’re servicing a vessel mid-voyage or rebuilding equipment in a remote mining site, we provide the components and support to get the job done right.

Important Considerations When Ordering a Rebuild Kit

Before placing your order for a Cummins KTA38 overhaul kit, ensure you have the following information:

• CPL Number: Found on the engine dataplate, this ensures compatibility with the correct pistons and liners.

• Desired Compression Ratio: Choose between 13.9:1 and 14.5:1 based on your existing setup.

• Application Type: Marine, stationary, or industrial usage can influence gasket materials and supporting components.

• Installation Plan: Some rebuilds are done in-frame, while others may require a full out-of-frame rebuild depending on engine wear.

If you're unsure which CPL your engine corresponds to or need help identifying the correct compression ratio, our support team is available to assist.