Cummins KTA 50 Engine Parts - Camshaft Section

Camshaft Components for Cummins KTA50 Engines

The camshaft system in the Cummins KTA50 plays a central role in synchronizing valve and injector operations, converting rotational motion into precise mechanical timing. Built for high-output diesel power across industrial, marine, and generator applications, the KTA50 relies on a robust and durable valvetrain to withstand demanding conditions.

At Diesel Pro Power, we offer a full range of camshaft parts for the Cummins KTA50, including bushings, followers, rollers, seals, push rods, and more—all engineered to meet OEM performance standards. Whether you’re completing a full rebuild or replacing wear components, our inventory ensures long-term reliability for one of the most critical engine systems.

Catalog of Cummins KTA50 Camshaft Parts

Camshaft Bushing – K38 and K50

Application: Cummins KTA50 and K38
Usage: Two bushings required per engine
Material: High-tensile bronze alloy

The camshaft bushings serve as the primary support bearings for the rotating camshaft. In the KTA50, the massive camshaft is supported by multiple bushings that reduce friction and maintain alignment under load.

Key Features:

• Precision-machined for optimal oil clearance
  
  

• Resistant to high-temperature and high-load environments
  
  

• Designed to handle the torsional vibration of large-displacement diesel engines
  
  

When to Replace:

• During any in-frame or out-of-frame overhaul
  
  

• If camshaft endplay is excessive
  
  

• If bushings show signs of scoring or deformation
  
  

Camshaft Lock Plate

Function: Secures the camshaft in position
Location: Front or rear camshaft retention area

The lock plate prevents axial movement of the camshaft during operation. This component is critical for ensuring accurate timing, especially in high-torque applications such as marine propulsion or oilfield equipment.

Benefits:

• Prevents cam walk and timing misalignment
  
  

• Maintains consistent lash settings
  
  

• OEM-quality design for precise fit
  
  

Accessory Drive Oil Seal

Application: Cummins KTA38 and KTA50
Type: Oil seal for the front accessory drive gear housing

The accessory drive oil seal prevents oil leakage at the interface between the rotating drive shaft and stationary housing. Maintaining seal integrity is essential for keeping oil inside the timing case and avoiding contamination or loss of engine lubricant.

Seal Characteristics:

• High-temperature rubber compound for long-term durability
  
  

• Designed to handle the RPM and pressure range of the accessory gear train
  
  

• Press-fit design ensures leak-free installation
  
  

Camshaft Hole Cover Gasket

Application: Cummins KTA19, KTA38, KTA50
Function: Seals the camshaft access hole in the gear train housing

This gasket prevents oil leaks and ensures a clean, tight seal at the camshaft hole cover. It’s often replaced during camshaft bushing installation or whenever the gear housing is accessed.

Attributes:

• Made from oil- and heat-resistant material
  
  

• Precision cut for a tight seal
  
  

• Prevents debris or moisture intrusion into the gearcase
  
  

Cummins Cam Follower Assembly Components

Roller for Injector Cam Follower

Application: K19, K38, K50
Function: Allows smooth contact between cam lobe and injector follower
Material: Hardened steel roller with precision bearings

The injector cam follower roller translates the rotating cam lobe’s profile into vertical movement, actuating the fuel injector at precisely the right moment. A worn or pitted roller can cause erratic fuel delivery, poor combustion, or misfiring.

Advantages:

• Engineered for ultra-low rolling resistance
  
  

• Surface hardened for longevity under high contact stress
  
  

• Easily replaceable during injector train service
  
  

Pin for Injector Cam Follower Roller

Application: K19, K38, K50
Function: Retains the roller within the cam follower assembly
Material: High-strength alloy pin

These pins are subjected to oscillating loads and must be perfectly round, wear-resistant, and properly lubricated to ensure consistent roller alignment.

Signs of Wear:

• Excessive roller side play
  
  

• Audible ticking from follower assembly
  
  

• Uneven injector actuation
  
  

Cam Follower Cover Gasket

Application: KTA19, KTA38, KTA50
Function: Seals the cam follower housing from oil leaks

Located where the cam follower access cover mounts to the block, this gasket ensures a tight seal against oil seepage and contamination.

Specifications:

• Oil- and temperature-resistant fiber composite
  
  

• Designed for repeated removal and reinstallation
  
  

• Simple and effective replacement during follower maintenance
  
  

Cummins Push Rods for KTA50 Valve Train

Push Rod for Valve Rocker

Application: KTA19, KTA38, KTA50, QSK19
Function: Transfers cam motion to the valve rocker arm

Valve push rods are engineered to withstand compressive loads and high-frequency oscillations. They maintain timing precision and valve lift integrity, especially at higher engine speeds.

Construction:

• Precision-ground ends for perfect seat contact
  
  

• Hollow or solid tubular steel construction
  
  

• Resistance to bending under stress
  
  

When to Replace:

• Bent or worn ends
  
  

• Excessive valve lash
  
  

• Audible ticking or tapping in the valve cover
  
  

Push Rod for Injector Rocker

Function: Transfers motion to the injector rocker
Application: KTA50 fuel system
Material: Hardened tubular steel

This rod acts as a mechanical link between the injector cam lobe and the fuel injector rocker lever. It's critical for maintaining fuel timing and injection pressure, especially on high-output KTA engines.

Roller for Valve Cam Follower

Application: K19, K38, K50
Function: Enables smooth movement of valve follower over camshaft

These rollers provide a low-friction rolling interface between the rotating camshaft and the valve train follower mechanism. Over time, these components may exhibit flat spots, scoring, or excessive wear—compromising valve timing and engine efficiency.

Design Attributes:

• Heat-treated rolling surface
  
  

• Smooth bore for pin mounting
  
  

• High RPM stability
  
  

Pin for Valve Cam Follower Roller

Purpose: Retains valve roller inside follower body
Material: Hardened steel pin with precision fit

Worn pins can allow lateral play or improper roller rotation, which leads to accelerated cam wear and erratic valve actuation. Replace any time the roller is changed or during a major top-end rebuild.

Camshaft Timing and Valvetrain Performance

The Role of the Camshaft in the Cummins KTA50

The camshaft in the KTA50 is responsible for opening and closing both intake and exhaust valves—and in some configurations, controlling mechanical fuel injector operation as well. It is synchronized with the crankshaft through a robust gear drive system, ensuring precise valve timing in relation to piston position.

Camshaft Functions:

• Controls intake and exhaust valve timing
  
  

• Operates injector followers in mechanical fuel systems
  
  

• Regulates combustion air and exhaust flow for efficiency
  
  

Common Signs of Camshaft System Wear

• Tapping or ticking sounds under valve cover
  
  

• Rough idle or misfiring at low RPMs
  
  

• Increased oil consumption due to timing misalignment
  
  

• Power loss and reduced fuel efficiency
  
  

Installation Best Practices

• Always inspect bushings and seals during camshaft service or rebuild
  
  

• Use correct torque values and sequence when installing cam followers and push rods
  
  

• Lubricate all rotating and sliding surfaces with engine assembly lube during installation
  
  

• Align camshaft timing marks exactly with crankshaft before starting reassembly
  
  

Why Diesel Pro Power Is the Preferred Choice

With over 40,000 satisfied customers, Diesel Pro Power has earned a global reputation for delivering high-quality Cummins parts backed by:

• Same-day shipping for in-stock items
  
  

• Expert technical support for KTA50 and other industrial models
  
  

• Precision-fit components built to OEM specs
  
  

• Secure, user-friendly online ordering
  
  

We supply camshaft parts for every stage of the rebuild process, from bushings and seals to push rods and followers. Whether you’re servicing a marine generator or overhauling a mining power unit, you’ll find exactly what you need—ready to ship.