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12VQSK38-M

Main Engine 4-Stroke · Main Engines (4-Stroke)

Technical data from manufacturer or class sources · not yet verified by a person
1,320 kWPower
12Cylinders
159 mmBore
159 mmStroke

The Cummins Marine 12VQSK38-M is a 12‑cylinder V‑type, medium‑speed diesel main engine delivering 1 320 kW at 1 800 rpm, featuring common‑rail fuel injection for high power density and low emissions.

Specifications

Technical data.reference — unverified

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ConfigurationV
Speed (rpm)1800
Fuel TypeMGO
TechnologyCommon Rail
Power (kW)1320
Inspection

Inspector Detail ✓ verified

Common issues

  • Excessive crankcase pressure due to worn piston rings or cylinder liners
  • Fuel system leaks or blockages in the common rail system
  • Lubrication oil contamination from coolant or fuel leaks
  • Turbocharger fouling or failure due to poor maintenance or low-quality fuel
  • Exhaust valve seat wear or damage from overheating
  • Cylinder head or block cracks from overheating or poor maintenance
  • Fuel injector coking or fouling from low-quality fuel or poor maintenance

Inspection checklist

  • Crankcase oil level and condition
  • Coolant level and condition
  • Fuel system leaks or blockages
  • Turbocharger condition and performance
  • Exhaust system condition and leaks
  • Cylinder head and block condition
  • Piston and ring condition
  • Lubrication system condition and performance
  • Fuel injection system condition and performance

Service intervals

oil_change400-600 hours
fuel_filter_change200-400 hours
air_filter_change100-200 hours
coolant_change2000-4000 hours

Typical wear limits

piston_rings0.5-1.0 mm wear
cylinder_liners0.1-0.5 mm wear
crankshaft_bearings0.1-0.5 mm wear
camshaft_bearings0.1-0.5 mm wear

Ranges are typical for this design class. Always confirm against the manufacturer documentation for your serial number.

Critical spares

  • Fuel injectors
  • Cylinder liners
  • Piston rings
  • Turbocharger components
  • Crankshaft seals
  • Camshaft bearings
  • Lubrication oil pumps

Safety

  • High-pressure fuel system leaks or ruptures
  • Crankcase explosion risk from excessive pressure or ignition sources
  • Scalding risk from hot coolant or steam leaks
  • Electrical shock risk from faulty wiring or components

Class survey

Class surveyors typically check for compliance with manufacturer's maintenance recommendations, proper installation and operation of safety devices, and adherence to regulatory requirements such as those related to emissions and noise pollution.

Estimated lifetime: 20000-30000 hours

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