Cummins KTA 50 Engine Parts - Oil Section

Cummins KTA50 Engine Parts – Oil Pump & Lubrication System Components

The Cummins KTA50 engine is a heavy-duty powerhouse engineered for the most demanding applications—marine propulsion, offshore drilling, power generation, and high-horsepower industrial use. To sustain performance and longevity, this engine depends on a highly engineered lubrication system, with the oil pump at its core.

From oil pans to pressure switches, Diesel Pro Power offers every part you need to maintain or restore your Cummins KTA50 oil system. Our inventory includes oil pumps, gaskets, filters, pressure sensors, oil coolers, and all associated seals—engineered for precise fit, superior performance, and long-term durability.

The Importance of the Oil Pump in Cummins KTA50 Engines

The oil pump is the lifeline of the KTA50 engine. Without a reliable pump, oil cannot reach critical rotating and reciprocating components, including:

• Crankshaft bearings
  
  

• Connecting rod bearings
  
  

• Camshaft bushings
  
  

• Valve lifters and push rods
  
  

• Turbocharger bearings
  
  

Operating at high RPMs and under extreme loads, the KTA50 requires an oil pump capable of delivering high flow rates and pressure consistently, across all operating conditions.

Key Functions of the Oil Pump

• Circulates engine oil under pressure to all internal components
  
  

• Maintains oil film between metal surfaces to reduce friction
  
  

• Cools components by transferring heat from pistons and bearings
  
  

• Traps contaminants via integration with the oil filtration system
  
  

Oil Pump Location and Operation

In the KTA50, the oil pump is typically gear-driven from the engine’s gear train and mounted low on the block near the oil pan. It draws oil from the sump and pushes it through the:

1. Oil cooler
   
   

2. Full-flow oil filter
   
   

3. Main oil gallery
   
   

From there, oil is distributed to various components via precisely drilled passages.

Oil Pan & Oil Pan Components

Cummins KTA50 Oil Pan Gasket

Function: Seals the oil pan to the lower engine block
Material: Heat- and oil-resistant fiber or composite gasket

A reliable oil pan gasket ensures a leak-proof seal between the sump and the block. It’s essential during any service that requires oil pan removal, such as oil pump replacement or lower bearing inspection.

Installation Notes:

• Clean all mating surfaces thoroughly
  
  

• Use torque sequence per Cummins service manual
  
  

• Replace gasket during any oil pump or crankcase repair
  
  

Oil Pan Adapter Gasket

Purpose: Seals the mating surface between the oil pan adapter and engine block
Application: KTA38 and KTA50 engines

This gasket ensures oil does not leak from adapter flanges during high-volume oil circulation. It’s particularly important in marine environments where oil leakage can cause contamination or damage to bilge systems.

Oil Filtration Components for KTA50

Cummins Oil Filter

Type: High-capacity spin-on filter
Dimensions: 4.65" diameter x 11.69" height
Thread Size: 2 1/4" – 12 UN

This large-format spin-on filter is specifically designed to trap microscopic contaminants, metal shavings, carbon particles, and sludge—ensuring that only clean oil reaches the engine’s critical components.

Key Benefits:

• Anti-drainback valve for fast start lubrication
  
  

• High burst strength to withstand pressure surges
  
  

• Extended service life for long intervals between changes
  
  

When to Replace:

• During every oil change
  
  

• If pressure drop across the filter is detected
  
  

• As part of preventive maintenance at regular intervals
  
  

Oil Filter Removal Wrench

Compatibility: Fits oil filters 4-21/32" to 5-5/32" diameter
Application: Works with Cummins, Detroit Diesel, and Caterpillar engines

The proper removal tool is essential to prevent damaging the filter or housing during removal. This heavy-duty wrench allows for safe, secure grip and easy service in tight spaces.

Oil Cooling System for Cummins KTA50

Cummins Oil Cooler

Function: Transfers excess heat from the engine oil into coolant or ambient air
Application: KTA38 and KTA50 engines

Oil performs double duty as both lubricant and heat sink. The oil cooler ensures that operating temperatures remain within optimal range, even under full load or high ambient conditions.

Construction:

• Multi-plate or tube-and-shell design
  
  

• Corrosion-resistant materials
  
  

• Compatible with marine and industrial coolant systems
  
  

Lock-Nut for Oil Cooler

Purpose: Secures the oil cooler to mounting hardware
Material: Threaded steel or stainless, vibration-resistant

This lock-nut is critical to maintaining the oil cooler’s tight seal and vibration isolation, especially in high-load or mobile environments.

Oil Cooler Cover Gasket

Location: Between the cooler body and access cover
Material: Composite material, oil-resistant

Replacing the oil cooler cover gasket ensures oil stays inside the cooler and doesn’t seep into the engine bay or bilge.

Oil Cooler Mounting Gasket

Function: Seals the cooler where it mates to the engine block
Purpose: Prevents coolant/oil mixing or external leaks

Oil Cooler O-Ring

Use: Internal sealing of coolant and oil pathways within the cooler
Spec: Heat- and chemical-resistant elastomer

Zinc Anode for Marine Oil Coolers

Purpose: Sacrificial zinc anode to prevent corrosion in marine applications
Construction: Zinc element within a 3/8" NPT brass plug

Zinc anodes protect the oil cooler from galvanic corrosion in saltwater environments. They are essential for any KTA50 engine operating in marine settings.

Service Interval: Inspect or replace every 6 to 12 months depending on water conditions

Oil Pressure Monitoring & Gauging

Fuel & Oil Pressure Switches (Make/Break Types)

Available Pressure Ratings: 5 PSI, 10 PSI, 20 PSI, 27 PSI
Connection: 1/8" NPT threads

These pressure switches are essential safety components. They trigger alarms or shutdowns when oil pressure falls below safe operating levels.

Installation Locations:

• Main oil gallery
  
  

• Filter outlet
  
  

• Near turbo oil feed
  
  

Why Use Multiple Ratings?

• Tailor alarms to application sensitivity
  
  

• Early warning versus critical shutdown triggers
  
  

• Custom settings for marine vs. industrial engines
  
  

Gauges – Mechanical & Electric

Types Available:

• Mechanical gauges with or without alarms
  
  

• 12V electric gauges
  
  

• 24V electric gauges
  
  

Accurate pressure readouts are essential for real-time monitoring of oil pressure. Mechanical gauges provide direct feedback, while electric gauges allow for remote mounting in control panels.

Gear Cover Gaskets

Upper and Lower Gear Cover Gaskets

Location: Seal the front timing gear housing on the KTA50
Function: Prevent oil leaks and contamination of internal gears

Proper sealing of the gear housing prevents oil spray and maintains the integrity of the engine timing system. These gaskets are often replaced during oil pump servicing, as access may require removal of the gear case cover.

Oil System Troubleshooting for Cummins KTA50

Common Symptoms of Oil System Issues

Oil Pump Maintenance & Replacement Best Practices

• Inspect the oil pump gears and housing for scoring or wear
  
  

• Measure pump end clearance and side clearance to spec
  
  

• Check relief valve operation to ensure correct pressure regulation
  
  

• Always prime the pump before engine start after replacement
  
  

• Replace gaskets and seals during any oil system service
  
  

• Flush the system after component failure to remove metal or debris
  
  

Why Diesel Pro Power is the Best Source for KTA50 Oil System Parts

With over 40,000 satisfied customers, Diesel Pro Power is the trusted name for Cummins engine parts worldwide.

We offer:

• Same-day shipping on in-stock components
  
  

• Global delivery for marine, offshore, and industrial customers
  
  

• Expert guidance from diesel engine specialists
  
  

• OEM-quality parts tested for durability and fitment
  
  

Whether you're completing an overhaul or troubleshooting a pressure drop, Diesel Pro Power supplies the oil pump and lubrication components needed to keep your Cummins KTA50 running reliably.