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Cummins

12VQSK38

Cummins K38 Marine Series — Marinediesel, Bohrung 159 x Hub 159 mm, 1500 - 2050 RPM (variable by configuration) rpm, 448 - 1119 kW (KTA38 variants); 746 - 1044 kW (QSK38-M1). Brennstoff: Diesel. Status: In service - production continues for marine applications. Verifiziert, Datenblatt verlinkt.

1560.0 kW
Power

Engine Specifications

12
Cylinders
159 mm
Bore
159 mm
Stroke
4-stroke
Stroke Type

Components & Design

Component data being added…

Technical Data

Displacement 38 liters (2300 cubic inches)
Configuration V-12 cylinder, 4-stroke, turbocharged/aftercooled
Compression Ratio 13.9:1
Valves per Cylinder 4
Cylinder Liner Replaceable wet cylinder liners
Fuel System KTA38 Cummins PT (Pressure Time) mechanical with optional CENTRY electronics
Fuel System QSK38 High Pressure Modular Common Rail (HPMCR)
Cooling QSK38 Two-pump, two-loop with low-temperature aftercooling and titanium plate heat exchanger
Cooling KTA38 Keel cooled or engine-mounted plate heat exchanger options
Oil Pan Capacity QSK38 114 L (30 gal) standard or 166 L (44 gal) high capacity
Dry Weight QSK38-G1 4100 kg
Dry Weight QSK38-G5 3825 kg
Dry Weight KTA38 4218 kg
Dimensions (Length x Width x Height) 2152 mm x 1462 mm x 2083 mm (KTA38); 2081 mm x 1492 mm x 1866 mm (QSK38)
Fuel Consumption Example KTA38-M0 162.1 L/hr at 850 HP rated power
Fuel Consumption Example KTA38-M2 224 L/hr at 1200 HP; 239.2 L/hr at 1300 HP
power kw 1560
rpm 1800
fuel type MDO
configuration V

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Common failures & inspection points

Cylinder Liner Cavitation Erosion

Inspect outer cylinder wall surfaces for honeycomb erosion patterns, especially along connecting rod swing direction. Verify DCA (Diesel Coolant Additive) quality and concentration. Check for water-in-oil condition via crankcase oil sampling.

Engine Overheating - Cooling System Failure

Monitor coolant levels monthly, inspect radiator/heat exchanger for blockage, test thermostats, check water pump operation and cooling fan function. Look for steam venting or elevated temperature gauge readings.

Turbocharger Degradation and Bearing Failure

Listen for whining/high-pitched squealing (bearing failure) or rattling (excessive shaft play). Inspect for boost leaks (hissing sounds). Check intake/exhaust temperatures. Verify compressor wheel integrity for damage.

Fuel System Contamination and Injector Wear

Drain water separator regularly, replace fuel filters per maintenance schedule (typically 1500 hours), test fuel pressure, inspect injectors for proper atomization, check fuel pump operation.

Oil Leaks from Gaskets and Seals

Inspect all gasket seals (head, pan, crankcase covers) for seeping, monitor crankcase pressure (excessive pressure indicates seal failure), check oil level regularly for unexplained loss.

Type-general inspection and maintenance points for this equipment category — not model-specific.

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Equipment Model #123563 · ✓ still in production