When it comes to engines that are revered in the diesel world, the 24V Cummins 5.9L ISB engine stands out. This engine is synonymous with durability, power, and performance. If you’re looking to install, retrofit, or upgrade your truck or equipment with this motor, understanding its weight is essential.
The weight of the motor has implications for installation, vehicle compatibility, fuel efficiency, and overall handling. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the 24V Cummins motor’s weight, including variations across model years and configurations, and how it impacts the engine’s performance.
What Is a 24V Cummins Motor?
The 24V Cummins motor, commonly referred to as the 5.9L ISB (Interact System B), is a highly reliable and robust diesel engine used primarily in Dodge Ram trucks from 1998 to 2007. It features a 24-valve design, which improves fuel efficiency and power delivery over its predecessor, the 12-valve engine. The 24V Cummins engine has become a staple in diesel performance circles due to its exceptional reliability and upgrade potential.
This engine is known for its robust construction, especially its cast-iron block, and its ability to run for hundreds of thousands of miles with minimal issues. It’s used not only in light-duty trucks but also in various industrial applications such as agriculture, construction, and transportation.
Types of 24V Cummins Motors
Over the years, the 24V Cummins motor has evolved, with significant changes to its fuel system, performance, and weight. Here’s a look at the three primary iterations:
1998.5–2000 Model:
- Injection System: VP44 (rotary pump)
- Power Output: 160–215 horsepower
- Key Features: The introduction of the 24-valve head, which provided better airflow, increased power, and improved fuel efficiency. The engine relied on a Bosch VP44 fuel pump that was known for its robustness, but it was somewhat prone to issues with fuel delivery.
2001–2002 Model:
- Injection System: VP44 (rotary pump), but with slight improvements for better fuel delivery
- Power Output: 235–245 horsepower
- Key Features: Enhanced fuel delivery system for better performance, improved emissions standards, and better tuning capabilities for aftermarket upgrades.
2003–2007 Model:
- Injection System: CP3 (common rail fuel injection system)
- Power Output: 305 horsepower
- Key Features: This iteration offered significant improvements in fuel efficiency and power delivery. The common rail system replaced the older VP44 pump, offering more precise fuel delivery and enhanced overall efficiency. It also met stricter emission regulations while providing better performance.
Each of these models brought incremental improvements to the engine’s overall performance and fuel efficiency, as well as minor adjustments to its overall weight.
How Much Does a 24V Cummins Motor Weigh?
The weight of a 24V Cummins engine can vary based on the model year and configuration. Below, we explore the dry (unloaded) and fully dressed (loaded) weights for each generation.
Dry Weight (Unloaded):
- Pounds: 1,150 lbs
- Kilograms: 522 kg
The dry weight refers to the weight of the engine when it is unloaded, meaning it does not include any accessories or external components such as the turbocharger, alternator, or air conditioning compressor.
Fully Dressed Weight (Loaded):
- Pounds: 1,600 lbs
- Kilograms: 726 kg
The fully dressed weight includes all the additional components attached to the engine such as the turbocharger, alternator, accessories, and other necessary parts for operation.
Weight Variations Based on Model Year:
- 1998.5–2000 Model:
- Dry Weight: 1,150 lbs / 522 kg
- Fully Dressed Weight: 1,600 lbs / 726 kg
- 2001–2002 Model:
- Dry Weight: 1,155 lbs / 524 kg
- Fully Dressed Weight: 1,610 lbs / 730 kg
- 2003–2007 Model:
- Dry Weight: 1,150 lbs / 522 kg
- Fully Dressed Weight: 1,600 lbs / 726 kg
It’s important to note that although the weight remains relatively consistent across the models, small differences in the weight of components like the fuel system, turbocharger, and cooling system can impact the overall weight.
Comparison Table: 24V Cummins Engine Weights
| Model Year | Injection System | Dry Weight (lbs) | Dry Weight (kg) | Fully Dressed Weight (lbs) | Fully Dressed Weight (kg) | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1998.5–2000 | VP44 | 1,150 | 522 | 1,600 | 726 | $4,500 – $7,000 |
| 2001–2002 | VP44 | 1,155 | 524 | 1,610 | 730 | $5,000 – $7,200 |
| 2003–2007 | CP3 | 1,150 | 522 | 1,600 | 726 | $6,000 – $9,000 |
Basics of a 24V Cummins Motor Weight
The 24V Cummins motor is known for its solid construction, featuring durable materials like cast iron, which contributes significantly to its weight. This construction ensures that the engine is long-lasting and capable of withstanding the high demands of diesel-powered vehicles.
The 24-valve design is another factor contributing to the weight of the engine. The 24 valves (instead of the 12 in older models) allow for better airflow, higher efficiency, and more power. However, the additional valves and the corresponding cylinder head modifications do add to the motor’s overall weight.
Factors Influencing the Weight of a 24V Cummins Motor
Fuel System:
The injection system is one of the most critical components that impact the engine’s weight. The earlier VP44 rotary injection system is slightly lighter than the later CP3 common rail system. The latter provides more precise fuel delivery, but the added components of the common rail system (such as the high-pressure fuel pump and associated plumbing) increase the engine’s weight.
Turbocharger and Components:
The addition of a turbocharger significantly impacts the weight of the engine. Turbochargers are essential for improving the engine’s power output, but they are also heavy components. The intercoolers, which cool the air after it’s been compressed by the turbo, also add to the motor’s weight.
Cooling System:
The inclusion of a robust cooling system, including radiators and intercoolers, adds extra weight to the engine. The larger and more complex the cooling system, the greater the overall weight.
Accessories:
The motor’s accessories, such as the alternator, air conditioning compressor, and power steering pump, all add to its overall weight. The more accessories attached to the engine, the heavier it will be when fully dressed.
Model Year:
As emissions standards became stricter, additional components like EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valves and other related hardware were added to newer models. These components contributed to a slight increase in weight, especially from 2001 onward.
Why Does the Weight of a 24V Cummins Motor Matter?
The weight of the 24V Cummins motor has significant implications for various aspects of vehicle performance:
Vehicle Handling:
A heavier engine requires a stronger suspension system to handle the additional weight. The frame of the vehicle must also be designed to support the increased load, which may necessitate modifications or reinforcements to the vehicle’s chassis.
Installation:
When installing a 24V Cummins engine, the weight is a crucial factor to consider. Heavier engines can be more challenging to install, requiring specialized equipment like engine hoists and potentially more time for secure mounting and alignment.
Performance:
The engine’s weight also affects the vehicle’s power-to-weight ratio. A heavier engine can reduce acceleration and fuel efficiency, particularly in a vehicle that wasn’t originally designed to handle such a load. However, this can be mitigated by tuning the engine for better performance, such as enhancing the power output to compensate for the additional weight.
How Much Does a 24V Cummins Motor Cost?
The cost of purchasing a 24V Cummins motor depends on its condition, model year, and whether it is new or remanufactured:
- New Motor: A brand-new 24V Cummins engine typically costs between $6,000 and $9,000 USD.
- Remanufactured Motor: A remanufactured engine is a more affordable option, typically ranging from $4,500 to $7,000 USD, depending on the model year and condition.
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a 24V Cummins Motor?
If you need to rent a 24V Cummins motor for a specific project, rental prices can vary depending on location, duration, and the specific rental company. On average, you can expect the following costs:
- Daily Rental: Between $100 and $300 USD per day
- Weekly Rental: Between $500 and $1,500 USD per week
How Much Fuel Does a 24V Cummins Motor Use?
Fuel efficiency in a 24V Cummins engine depends on the load, driving style, and vehicle configuration. On average, a vehicle equipped with this engine will achieve:
- Fuel Efficiency: Around 15–20 miles per gallon (mpg) under normal driving conditions.
The weight of the engine and the vehicle’s overall weight can significantly influence these numbers. Heavier vehicles typically experience lower fuel efficiency, though proper tuning and maintenance can help optimize fuel consumption.
How Fast Can a 24V Cummins Motor Go?
The top speed of a 24V Cummins-powered vehicle depends largely on the vehicle’s weight, aerodynamics, and modifications. In a stock setup, vehicles equipped with this engine can reach speeds up to 100 mph (160 km/h), though modifications such as performance tuning or turbo upgrades can push the speed even higher.
Dimensions of a 24V Cummins Motor
The size of the 24V Cummins motor can vary slightly based on its configuration, but on average:
- Length: 40.0 inches (1016 mm)
- Width: 24.9 inches (633 mm)
- Height: 37.9 inches (964 mm)
These dimensions make the engine a relatively compact yet powerful option for a variety of applications, including trucks and industrial machinery.
How Much Weight Can a 24V Cummins Motor Hold?
The weight capacity of a 24V Cummins engine is not determined by the engine itself but by the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle it powers. The GVWR indicates the total weight the vehicle can safely carry, including passengers, cargo, and the engine itself.
Conclusion
The 24V Cummins engine is a workhorse that has become a popular choice for diesel enthusiasts and professionals due to its power, longevity, and modifiability. Understanding the motor’s weight and the factors that influence it can help you make informed decisions, whether you’re considering purchasing, upgrading, or maintaining a vehicle with this engine. The engine’s weight, while substantial, contributes to its overall durability and performance, making it a reliable option for both stock and heavily modified applications.
Fun Facts
- The 24V Cummins engine’s 24-valve design improves airflow, enhancing fuel efficiency and power.
- Many 24V Cummins engines have lasted over 500,000 miles with regular maintenance, proving their durability.
- Despite being an older design, the 24V Cummins engine remains a top choice for engine swaps and custom builds.
- The 5.9L ISB engine is one of the most tunable engines in the diesel world, with some custom builds pushing its output to over 1,000 horsepower.