Different turbos Cat 3406B has used over the years.

Hello. I’m learning about these 3406B Cat engines that have been used in trucks over years.

We have most trucks here that are powered by a Cat from the B’s to the C15 ACERT.

The two we have, one is a 1987 Pete and the other is a 1990 International.

The 1992 Pete uses a B model but has a different turbo being the only thing from the other two.

Performance wise, the 1992 is the cleanest burning B model as it doesn’t smoke much.

The 1987 and 1990 both perform well but always has a trail of smoke when the throttle is wide open.

Measuring the opening of the compressor housing at the wheel, the 87 and 90 is a 76mm.

The 92 looks physically larger but the wheel is smaller. 74 mm.

The turbine opening is 90 mm for the 87 and 90.

the 92 is 87mm.

Over the years I’ve learned that large turbos have a harder time keeping the visible smoke down.

We have a 92 B model turbo on the shelf and have been thinking of trying it on the 1990 international.

The 1987 B model is our best performing Cat as it pulled harder than our 475 E model.

If the newer model turbo cleans up the smoke better, the performance should be better too?

This reminds me of the gen 1 dodge Cummins powered trucks.

The early models have smaller compressor and turbine housings than the 1992-93 models which spooled better.

The 93 Cummins we have is a slow spooling turbo that smoked a lot.

I modified that turbo by changing out the turbine housing with a 97 model smaller size and that cleaned up all the smoke and increased performance without touching the fuel screws. (Still haven’t touched the screws to this day)

this is similar to the 1992 Pete 3406B



This is the International 3406B

 

AmodelCat:

1990 International is a 425 hp
1987 Pete is I think a 400 hp
1992 Pete is a 425 hp

We got these trucks from other people so I’m not sure if they’re original or have been replaced over time.

They do say Cat on them.

 

I did try and look for them. The tags are gone.

I can see a A/R 86 on the compressor housing of one and a 75 for the one on the truck.

Can’t see the A/R for the turbine of both.

 

I don’t really have to change the turbos.

The turbo in the truck right now is doing fine.

Just something to learn about.

If one turbo is more efficient than the one currently on the truck, then I’m sure my boss would be fine with me switching them out and trying it.

 

Yes, that’s what I was looking for.

unfortunately these turbos are so rusty around the center section area.

The plates are gone.