Getting started with a Cummins® Swap Project

Cummins has a strong presence in the diesel industry. Their products seem to stand the test of time. The B series engines are a testimonial to their success and appear to live up to Cummins name. Many aftermarket products are based on and built around the B series engines found in the Dodge® applications. This has been the most common engine used for conversions and therefore the most user-friendly models to use in builds. The price point of an industrial Cummins engine is appealing and can be a better option given the opportunities in your area. Be aware that the industrial engines often ran different accessory setups and had different engine performance expectations. Most often they are derated performance-wise when compared to the Dodge version

 We have found that people will install a Cummins into just about anything they can think of. Finding the engine that is right for the purpose of the build is where the process will eventually go. While the block of the inline-6 5.9L-6.7L Cummins did not change much, the fuel systems, emissions, and electronic integration did. This should be considered in your vision and the cost of the build. The price of the build and flexibility of upgrades very greatly through the different generations of vehicles and engines. For example, a set of 6 injectors for the '89-'93 12 valve is roughly $700.00, while a set of 6 injectors for a '07 5.9L common rail is over $3,000.00. If you look at the power outputs of the two different engines, they are drastically different as well.

The B series straight-6 engines are tall and long. Front clip modifications can be made to accommodate the extra length and firewalls are often modified. The oil pan clearance can pose challenges on two-wheel drives, but it seems to be less problematic for four-wheel drives. The straight-6 allows you a little bit of relief in the install because of its side to side space in the engine compartment. The turbo location is the main component on the side of the engine that is typically a challenge. Luckily, there are a few versions of manifolds that place the turbo in a friendlier location which can help immensely.

Some people excel at wiring, others are uncomfortable connecting the battery cables. Both can do a Cummins conversion, but it is good to know your comfort zone. If wiring is not something you like to dedicate a lot of time and energy to, then sticking with a 12 valve might be a better project than a 24 valve. The 24 valves came out in mid-1998, which is when an ECM became a must. Prior to this time, you could strip a Cummins engine down to the bare bones and still cover ground going down the road.

Diesel Conversion Specialists® has an extensive library of conversion parts for those interested in a Cummins swap. Feel free to use our Kit Builder if you have a vehicle we provide a conversion kit for. Or if you know what transmission you intend to install, you can browse our selection of adapter plates.