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PACCAR vs Cummins

Steve Hoke

Published on

PACCAR and Cummins are two well-known brands in the heavy-duty trucking industry. PACCAR is a Fortune 500 company that designs, manufactures, and sells commercial vehicles, while Cummins is a global power leader that designs, manufactures, and distributes engines, generator sets, and related components.

While both companies are leaders in their respective fields, they are not the same and their products have some differences. Below we break down the differences between PACCAR vs Cummins engines.

About PACCAR & Cummins

While PACCAR and Cummins are both well-respected brands in the heavy-duty trucking industry, their engines have some differences. PACCAR engines are designed and manufactured in-house, while Cummins engines are built by a separate company. As a result, PACCAR engines are typically only used in PACCAR trucks, while Cummins are used in a variety of different truck brands.

In terms of performance, both engines have their strengths and weaknesses. PACCAR engines are known for their durability and fuel efficiency, while Cummins engines are known for their power and reliability. Ultimately, the decision between these engines will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the truck owner.

paccar vs cummins - DPF Parts Direct

Like any complex mechanical system, diesel engines can sometimes experience issues or malfunctions. It is not uncommon for engines to require maintenance or repairs at some point during their lifecycle.

In summary, PACCAR and Cummins are two well-known brands in the heavy-duty trucking industry. While both companies have a reputation for producing high-quality products, their products are not the same. PACCAR designs and manufactures its own engines, which are used in its Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks, while Cummins designs and manufactures engines that are used in a variety of different truck brands. Ultimately, the decision between these engines will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the truck owner.

Disclaimer:The specifications listed in this article may vary depending on the specific application and configuration of the engine. It is always best to consult the manufacturer's specifications or the owner's manual for the most accurate and up-to-date information on the engine's capabilities and performance.

Is a PACCAR Engine the Same as a Cummins?

The answer to this question depends on which engine and what year you are talking about. So, the answer is both YES and NO.

As far back as 2001, it has been well known that PACCAR and Cummins had allied with each other. Fleet Owner reported on this on March 1, 2001.

As recently as the summer of 2022 we see further evidence that the alliance between PACCAR and Cummins is going strong, in an August 15, 2022 press release on PACCAR.com it announced “PACCAR to Offer Cummins X15N Natural Gas Engine.”

So, while PACCAR does design and manufactures proprietary engine designs like the MX-13 and others that are used in its Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks, it also has used many Cummins motors in its trucks over the years.

PACCAR – A Multinational OEM Manufacturer of Vehicles

PACCAR is a multinational corporation that designs, manufactures, and distributes trucks, buses, and other commercial vehicles under the Kenworth, Peterbilt, and DAF brand names. It is headquartered in Bellevue, Washington, and was founded in 1905 by William Pigott as the Pacific Car and Foundry Company.

PACCAR is a global leader in the design and manufacture of heavy-duty trucks, medium-duty trucks, and severe-service vehicles. The company's trucks are known for their fuel efficiency, durability, and advanced technology, and are used in a variety of applications, including long-haul trucking, construction, and other commercial uses.

In addition to its truck manufacturing operations, PACCAR engines and parts are also produced for its vehicles, as well as for other truck manufacturers. The company has a network of dealers and service centers around the world and also provides financing and leasing options for its customers.

PACCAR is a publicly traded company and is listed on the NASDAQ stock exchange. It has a strong financial performance, with a long history of profitability and steady growth. The company has also been recognized for its sustainability efforts, including its use of renewable energy and its commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Here is a list of some of the engines that PACCAR offers:

  • MX-11: A 11-liter inline six-cylinder diesel engine used in medium-duty trucks and buses.
  • MX-13:A 13-liter inline six-cylinder diesel engine used in heavy-duty trucks.
  • MX-15:A 15-liter inline six-cylinder diesel engine used in heavy-duty trucks.
  • PX-7:A 7-liter inline six-cylinder diesel engine used in medium-duty trucks.
  • PX-9:A 9-liter inline six-cylinder diesel engine used in medium-duty trucks.
  • PX-11:A 11-liter inline six-cylinder diesel engine used in medium-duty trucks.

PACCAR also offers a range of hybrid and electric powertrain systems for its trucks and buses. These include the Kenworth T680E electric truck and the Peterbilt 579EV electric truck.

Cummins – A Global Leader in Diesel & Electric Engines

Cummins engines are built for a wide range of applications, including heavy-duty trucks, buses, recreational vehicles, construction, and agriculture equipment, power generation, and marine vessels. Cummins is a global power leader that designs, manufactures, and distributes engines, generator sets, and related components. The company has a reputation for producing high-quality products that are known for their power, reliability, and fuel efficiency.

Cummins motors are available in various sizes and configurations, including inline-four, inline-six, V6, V8, and V12 options. They are used in a variety of different vehicle brands, including Freightliner, Volvo, Peterbilt, Kenworth, and many others. In addition to powering vehicles, Cummins are also used in power generation systems, providing electricity to homes, businesses, and other facilities.

Overall, Cummins motors are built to provide reliable and efficient power for a wide range of applications. Whether it's powering a heavy-duty truck across long distances or providing electricity to a remote village, these engines are designed to meet the needs of a diverse set of customers.

Here is a list of some of the engines that Cummins offers:

  • B Series:A range of inline four- to six-cylinder diesel engines used in light-duty trucks, buses, and other commercial vehicles.
  • ISB:A 6.7-liter inline six-cylinder diesel engine used in medium-duty trucks and buses.
  • ISC:An 8.3-liter inline six-cylinder diesel engine used in medium-duty trucks and buses.
  • ISL:A 9-liter inline six-cylinder diesel engine used in heavy-duty trucks and buses.
  • ISM:A 10.8-liter inline six-cylinder diesel engine used in heavy-duty trucks and buses.
  • ISX:A 15-liter inline six-cylinder diesel engine used in heavy-duty trucks and buses.
  • L Series:A range of inline four- to six-cylinder diesel engines used in agricultural, construction, and other off-road applications.
  • N Series:A range of inline four- to six-cylinder diesel engines used in light-duty trucks, buses, and other commercial vehicles.

Cummins also offers a range of natural gas engines, including the ISX12 G, a 12-liter inline six-cylinder natural gas engine used in heavy-duty trucks, and the B6.7 G, a 6.7-liter inline six-cylinder natural gas engine used in medium-duty trucks and buses.

Is the PACCAR PX-6 a Cummins Engine?

According to several forums where this is discussed by truckers, we found that the consensus is that the PX-6 was manufactured by Cummins for PACCAR and is based on the Cummins ISB engine. That doesn’t mean the PACCAR PX-6 and Cummins ISB engines are identical though.

Here are some of the specifications for the PACCAR PX-6 engine:

  • Displacement:7 liters (410 cubic inches)
  • Configuration:Inline 6-cylinder
  • Bore x stroke:21 x 4.88 inches
  • Compression ratio:5:1
  • Aspiration:Turbocharged and air-to-air intercooled
  • Fuel system:Electronic high-pressure common rail
  • Maximum horsepower:200-325 horsepower
  • Maximum torque:520-860 lb-ft
  • Emissions compliance:Meets EPA 2010 and Euro 6 emissions standards

Cummins ISB engines

The Cummins ISB (Interact System B) is a diesel engine that was designed and manufactured by Cummins, a company based in the United States. It is a medium-duty engine that is known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and low emissions.

The ISB engine is available in a range of sizes and power ratings, with displacement ranging from 5.9 liters to 8.3 liters. It is a popular choice for use in a variety of applications, including buses, RVs, and trucks. The ISB engine is equipped with advanced technology, including a high-pressure common rail fuel system and an electronic control system, which help to improve performance and efficiency.

The ISB engine is also compliant with EPA emissions standards, making it a good choice for vehicles that need to meet strict emissions requirements. It is known for its strong power and torque output and is highly regarded in the industry for its performance and reliability.

Here are some key specifications for the Cummins ISB engine:

  • Displacement:9 liters to 8.3 liters (360 to 505 cubic inches)
  • Configuration:Inline 6-cylinder
  • Bore x stroke:02 x 4.72 inches (5.9L and 6.7L); 4.21 x 4.88 inches (8.3L)
  • Compression ratio:3:1 (5.9L); 17.5:1 (6.7L and 8.3L)
  • Aspiration:Turbocharged and air-to-air intercooled
  • Fuel system:Electronic high-pressure common rail
  • Maximum horsepower:210-325 horsepower (5.9L); 300-350 horsepower (6.7L and 8.3L)
  • Maximum torque:520-860 lb-ft (5.9L and 6.7L); 1,000-1,250 lb-ft (8.3L)
  • Emissions compliance:Meets EPA 2010 and Euro 6 emissions standards

Is the PACCAR PX-7 a Cummins Engine?

cummins engines - DPF Parts Direct

Once again as with the PX-6, it appears that Cummins manufactured these engines for PACCAR.

A June 26, 2006, press release from PACCAR.com made these key statements:

  • PACCAR and Cummins have announced an agreement for the installation of Cummins 6- and 8-liter engines in Peterbilt and Kenworth medium-duty commercial vehicles in North America.
  • The engines will be branded as PACCAR engines and will be exclusive to these vehicles.
  • This agreement expands upon the existing engine collaboration between DAF and Cummins in Europe, where the Cummins 4- and 6-liter engines are exclusive to the DAF LF product.
  • The North American agreement allows PACCAR to compete with other manufacturers that have their own proprietary medium-duty engines.
  • This agreement will also significantly reduce the cost of homologating multiple engines for compliance with 2007 EPA regulations for PACCAR's chassis.
  • Peterbilt and Kenworth will continue to offer their customers a choice of engines in their Class 8 vehicles.

As you can see, Cummins manufactured these engines specifically for PACCAR, and “the engines will be branded as PACCAR and will be made exclusive to these (PACCAR) vehicles”.

Here are some of the specifications for the PACCAR PX-7 engine:

  • Displacement:2 liters (441 cubic inches)
  • Configuration:Inline 6-cylinder
  • Bore x stroke:21 x 4.88 inches
  • Compression ratio:5:1
  • Aspiration:Turbocharged and air-to-air intercooled
  • Fuel system:Electronic high-pressure common rail
  • Maximum horsepower:200-350 horsepower
  • Maximum torque:520-860 lb-ft
  • Emissions compliance:Meets EPA 2010 and Euro 6 emissions standards

Is the PACCAR PX-8 a Cummins Engine?

As with the PX-6 and PX-7 engines, it appears that Cummins manufactured these engines for PACCAR and made them exclusive to the PACCAR line of trucks.

Here are some key specifications for the PACCAR PX-8 engine:

  • Displacement:3 liters (505 cubic inches)
  • Configuration:Inline 6-cylinder
  • Bore x stroke:96 x 5.79 inches
  • Compression ratio:5:1
  • Aspiration:Turbocharged and air-to-air intercooled
  • Fuel system:Electronic high-pressure common rail
  • Maximum horsepower:300-350 horsepower
  • Maximum torque:1,000-1,250 lb-ft
  • Emissions compliance:Meets EPA 2010 and Euro 6 emissions standards

Is the PACCAR PX-9 a Cummins Engine?

cummins engine - DPF Parts Direct

Some PACCAR engines are designed and manufactured by PACCAR while other engines are relabelled by PACCAR because they were manufactured by Cummins.

Here are some key specifications for the PACCAR PX-9 engine:

  • Displacement:0 liters (549 cubic inches)
  • Configuration:Inline 6-cylinder
  • Bore x stroke:96 x 6.61 inches
  • Compression ratio:5:1
  • Aspiration:Turbocharged and air-to-air intercooled
  • Fuel system:Electronic high-pressure common rail
  • Maximum horsepower:330-380 horsepower
  • Maximum torque:1,000-1,250 lb-ft
  • Emissions compliance:Meets EPA 2010 and Euro 6 emissions standards

Cummins ISL Engines

The Cummins ISL is also a diesel engine, but it is manufactured by Cummins, a different company based in the United States. The ISL engine is a medium-duty engine that is known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. It is used in a variety of vehicles, including buses, RVs, and trucks. While both the PACCAR PX-9 and the Cummins ISL are medium-duty engines, they are not the same engine and are not interchangeable.

Here are some key specifications for the Cummins ISL engine:

  • Displacement:9 liters (542 cubic inches)
  • Configuration:Inline 6-cylinder
  • Bore x stroke:88 x 6.14 inches
  • Compression ratio:2:1
  • Aspiration:Turbocharged and air-to-air intercooled
  • Fuel system:Electronic high-pressure common rail
  • Maximum horsepower:280-400 horsepower
  • Maximum torque:1,000-1,450 lb-ft
  • Emissions compliance:Meets EPA 2010 and Euro 6 emissions standards

The PACCAR MX Series of Engines

PACCAR MX series engines are a line of medium-duty diesel engines that are designed for use in a variety of commercial vehicles, including trucks, buses, and other heavy-duty vehicles. These engines are known for their fuel efficiency, reliability, and durability, and are used in a wide range of applications, including over-the-road trucking, regional haul, vocational, and other heavy-duty applications.

paccar engines - DPF Parts Direct

There are several different versions of the PACCAR MX series engines, including the MX-11, MX-13, and MX-15. The MX-11 is an 11-liter engine that is available in horsepower ratings ranging from 330 to 460 horsepower. It is designed for use in trucks and buses and is known for its fuel efficiency and low emissions.

The MX-13 is a 13-liter engine that is available in horsepower ratings ranging from 380 to 500 horsepower. It is also designed for use in trucks and buses and is known for its fuel efficiency and low emissions.

The MX-15 is a 15-liter engine that is available in horsepower ratings ranging from 425 to 605 horsepower. It is designed for use in heavy-duty vocational applications, such as dump trucks and concrete mixer trucks, and is known for its power and durability.

All of the PACCAR MX series engines are equipped with advanced technology, including common rail fuel injection systems and advanced electronic controls, which help to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. They are also designed to meet the latest emissions standards, including the US EPA's 2010 emissions regulations.

In summary, the PACCAR MX series engines are a line of reliable and efficient diesel engines that are designed for use in a variety of commercial vehicles. They are known for their fuel efficiency, low emissions, and durability, and are used in a wide range of applications.

The Cummins ISX Series of Engines

The Cummins ISX series engines are a line of heavy-duty diesel engines that are designed for use in a variety of commercial vehicles, including trucks, buses, and other heavy-duty vehicles. These engines are known for their power, fuel efficiency, reliability, and durability, and are used in a wide range of applications, including over-the-road trucking, regional haul, vocational, and other heavy-duty applications.

There are several different versions of the Cummins ISX series engines, including the ISX12, ISX15, and ISX12 G. The ISX12 is a 12-liter engine that is available in horsepower ratings ranging from 400 to 600 horsepower. It is designed for use in trucks and buses and is known for its fuel efficiency and low emissions.

The ISX15 is a 15-liter engine that is available in horsepower ratings ranging from 425 to 600 horsepower. It is also designed for use in trucks and buses and is known for its fuel efficiency and low emissions.

The ISX12 G is a 12-liter engine that is designed specifically for use in natural gas-powered vehicles. It is available in horsepower ratings ranging from 400 to 500 horsepower and is known for its power and reliability.

All of the Cummins ISX series engines are equipped with advanced technology, including common rail fuel injection systems and advanced electronic controls, which help to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. They are also designed to meet the latest emissions standards, including the US EPA's 2010 emissions regulations.

In summary, the Cummins ISX series engines are a line of powerful and efficient diesel engines that are designed for use in a variety of commercial vehicles. They are known for their fuel efficiency, low emissions, and durability, and are used in a wide range of applications.

How to Choose the Right Engine for Your Commercial Truck

paccar engine - DPF Parts Direct

Regardless of your brand preference for commercial engines, PACCAR, or Cummins, choosing the right engine for your commercial truck is an important decision that can have a significant impact on the performance and efficiency of your vehicle.

Here are some key factors to consider when making this decision:

  • Power and torque:The engine of your truck needs to be powerful enough to handle the weight and load of your vehicle, as well as any additional payload you may be carrying. Look for an engine with high horsepower and torque ratings to ensure that your truck has sufficient power for the job.
  • Fuel efficiency:Fuel costs can make up a significant portion of the operating expenses for a commercial truck, so it's important to choose an engine that is fuel efficient. Look for engines that have advanced fuel injection systems and other technologies that help to improve fuel efficiency.
  • Emissions standards:Most commercial trucks are required to meet certain emissions standards, so it's important to choose an engine that meets these standards. Look for engines that are certified to meet the latest emissions regulations, as this will help you to avoid fines and other penalties.

Choosing the right engine for your commercial truck is an important decision that requires careful consideration. By considering factors such as power and torque, fuel efficiency, and emissions standards, you can find an engine that meets your needs and helps to keep your operating costs low.

The Importance of Maintaining Your Diesel Emissions System on Your Commercial Truck

As a commercial truck driver, it's important to maintain your diesel emissions system to ensure that your vehicle is operating at its best. Not only will this help to improve the performance and efficiency of your truck, but it's also important for the environment.

One of the main reasons to maintain your diesel emissions system is to keep your truck running smoothly. The emissions system plays a crucial role in reducing the amount of harmful pollutants that are released into the air, and if it's not functioning properly, it can lead to reduced fuel efficiency and overall performance. By regularly checking and maintaining your emissions system, you can help to ensure that your truck is running at its best and avoid costly repairs down the road.

Another reason to maintain your diesel emissions system is to meet regulatory requirements. Most commercial trucks are required to meet certain emissions standards and failing to do so can result in fines and other penalties. By regularly checking and maintaining your emissions system, you can help to ensure that your truck meets these standards and avoid any potential issues.

Finally, maintaining your diesel emissions system is important for the environment. Commercial trucks are one of the largest sources of air pollution, and by regularly checking and maintaining your emissions system, you can help to reduce the amount of harmful airborne pollutants. This not only helps to protect the environment, but it also helps to improve air quality for all of us.

cummins vs paccar - DPF Parts Direct

In conclusion, maintaining your diesel emissions system is crucial for the performance and efficiency of your commercial truck, as well as for meeting regulatory requirements and protecting the environment. With regular maintenance of your emissions system, you can help to ensure that your truck is running at its best all while reducing harmful air pollutants.

Don't let a faulty diesel emission system slow you down! Get the high-quality replacement parts you need at DPF Parts Direct. Contact Us and our team of experts can help you find the right parts for your commercial truck and get you back on the road in no time. Trust us to provide you with the best parts at the best prices. Visit us today and get the peace of mind that comes with knowing your truck is running at its best.