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CAT 7.1 Diesel Engine: The Good, The Bad, and the Over-Engineered

By Select Reman Exchange

The Caterpillar 7.1L (CAT 7.1) engine has become a hot topic among diesel mechanics — some see it as a refined evolution of the Perkins 6.6, while others view it as a solid motor buried under layers of emissions complexity.

Recently, Clay from Select Reman Exchange shared an inside look at one of these engines in our shop. His perspective adds a real-world layer to the excellent teardown and review by Joshua from the Update Channel on YouTube. Here, we’ll explore what both experts say — and what it all means for owners, operators, and rebuilders.

Perkins Roots with a CAT Badge

At its core, the CAT 7.1 is a rebadged and refined Perkins 6.6. The block, cam train, front housing, and oil cooler setup are largely identical. But CAT added plenty of emissions hardware to meet Tier 4 Final standards:

  • Twin turbochargers instead of a single turbo.
  • EGR and DPF systems for emissions compliance.
  • SCR aftertreatment mounted externally from the block.

As Clay notes, these additions make what used to be a simple, serviceable engine far more complex. The extra plumbing and sensors add layers of difficulty for shops rebuilding or troubleshooting them.

“It’s a Perkins engine at heart — they build a great motor. But with the twin turbo and all the emissions gear, it’s not as easy to work on.” – Clay, Select Reman Exchange

Hydraulic Lifters: Smart or Short-Sighted?

One of the CAT 7.1’s standout features is its hydraulic lifter design, which eliminates the need for valve adjustments. It’s a mechanic’s time-saver during assembly — no overhead setting required.

However, as Clay points out, the long-term reliability of hydraulic lifters in high-hour industrial use is still up for debate. Once worn, they’re harder and more expensive to service than traditional solid tappets.

Joshua echoes this in his teardown, noting that the valvetrain design simplifies factory setup but reduces rebuild flexibility later in the engine’s life.

Service Complexity: The Rocker Shaft Challenge

Both Clay and Joshua highlight one of the engine’s biggest service frustrations — the rocker shaft assembly. It’s a single solid unit with multiple springs and tight tolerances.

“You need three guys to set it if you don’t have the special tool. The first time we did one, it was a pain.” – Clay

This design, while precise, makes the engine less technician-friendly. CAT likely optimized for factory production speed, not field rebuilds — a trend that’s becoming more common as OEMs prioritize emissions packaging over accessibility.

What’s Done Right

Despite the complaints, the CAT 7.1 isn’t a bad engine by any stretch. Joshua’s teardown credits several improvements:

  • Cleaner common rail injection for better startup and less smoke.
  • Improved alignment dowels on the front structure.
  • Elimination of fragile plastic retainers found in earlier Perkins models.
  • Easier injector access and simplified fuel system layout.
  • 10,000–12,000 hour lifespan before rebuild or replacement.

Clay backs that up with his experience — the engine runs “smooth as glass” once fueled and started, barely vibrating at idle.

The Downsides: Fasteners, Oil Pans, and Design Quirks

Joshua’s teardown exposes several frustrating engineering choices:

  • Inverted Torx bolts throughout the engine.
  • Oil pan spacer design requiring major teardown to reseal.
  • Flat tappet camshaft that drops lifters during removal.
  • Injector trim file codes that are overly long and confusing.

Each issue alone isn’t a dealbreaker, but together they make the 7.1 more tedious to service than comparable engines from Cummins or John Deere.

Real-World Longevity & Rebuild Economics

In the field, most CAT 7.1 engines last around 10,000–12,000 hours before needing significant work. That’s respectable, but the lack of replaceable liners means full rebuilds are costlier.

For small contractors or municipal fleets, that impacts ROI. A non-linered block often means replacement instead of rebuild — another sign of OEMs favoring new unit sales over old-school serviceability.

Can the CAT 7.1 Be Simplified?

Clay raises a thought-provoking question:

“Could you just run it like a 6.6 again? One turbo, no EGR, simple and reliable?”

Technically, yes — you could retrofit a single-turbo manifold and delete the emissions gear. But practically (and legally), that’s not viable in regulated markets. Still, it shows where the mechanic community’s heart lies: in rebuildable, straightforward, long-lived diesel platforms.

Final Thoughts

The CAT 7.1 embodies modern diesel evolution — powerful, efficient, and clean-running, but undeniably more complex. It’s a mechanically solid engine trapped in an emissions maze.

Joshua’s teardown provides the technical critique; Clay’s shop-floor view brings the reality. Together, they paint a fair picture: this engine performs exceptionally once running — but getting there can take patience, teamwork, and a well-stocked tool chest.

Watch the Original Video

Check out Joshua’s full teardown here:
CAT 7.1 Diesel Engine Teardown & Review on YouTube

Related Reading (Internal Linking Suggestions)

If you’re looking to rebuild or source a CAT 7.1 or 6.6, our team at Select Reman Exchange can help. We’ve got multiple engines in process and can customize to your fleet needs.
📞 Contact us today to discuss your next build — or drop a comment if you’ve got experience simplifying these setups.

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Cummins Push Tube Timing: Step-by-Step Guide for N14, 855, KTA & More

Cummins push tube timing is essential for achieving accurate injector performance across iconic diesel platforms like the N14, 855 Big Cam, and KTA series. If you’re working on a Cummins engine, mastering Cummins push tube timing is crucial for maximizing power and efficiency. This detailed guide explains exactly how to set Cummins push tube timing step-by-step—covering inspection, piston travel measurement, and cam follower adjustment to ensure optimal fuel delivery and engine efficiency.

What is Cummins Push Tube Timing?

Cummins push tube timing refers to the calibration of injector push rod travel relative to piston position. It ensures that fuel injection occurs at the precise moment during the compression stroke, maximizing power, fuel efficiency, and emissions control.

Cummins Platforms That Require Push Tube Timing

Push tube timing is commonly required for the following Cummins platforms:

  • N14 (CELECT & CELECT Plus)
  • 855 Small Cam & Big Cam
  • NTC350, NTC400
  • KTA19, KTA38, KTA50
  • VTA, VT-225, V-504, VT-555
  • L10, M11
  • K19, V903 (uses cam key changes instead of gasket stacking)

Step-by-Step Procedure for Setting Cummins Push Tube Timing

Step 1: Inspect Push Rods

Inspect push rods. Make sure each push rod has a “bell” like sound when tapping on something solid. This ensures they are not filled with dried up oil inside of the push rod. Next roll the push rod on a flat surface to make sure the pushrod is not bent.

Step 2: Seat the Camshaft

Ensure the cam is pushed back tight to the cam thrust.

Step 3: Install Cam Follower Box

Start off with a permaseal gasket for the innermost gasket with the permaseal facing the block. It is best to start with the same thickness of gaskets that was originally pulled from the cam follower box before the engine was torn down. This typically will get you in the ballpark of the spec you wish to be at. 

Step 4: Inspect and Install Cam Followers

Inspect the cam follower to ensure nothing is wrong with them. Then go ahead and install them on the engine. Be sure to not “roll” any of the thinner gaskets in your stack of gaskets. Start all the bolts by hand and then torque them to 35 Foot lbs in a inner to outer pattern

Step 5: Install Push Tube Timing Tool

Install the push tube timing tool into the injector hole and install one injector push tube. Ensure the push tube is straight up and down and not being interfered with by the head gasket. Note: before getting started it is a good idea to ensure your gear timing is correct between the crankshaft gear and the cam gear. If the camshaft was replaced, always pay attention to the cam key and what direction the arrow is facing. It is very important to go back with the same key in the same direction otherwise the push tube timing will not be able to be put into spec correctly. 

Step 6: Find Top Dead Center (TDC)

Find top dead center of the cylinder you are checking. Zero your piston indicator, indicating where true top dead center is. Continue to turn the engine in the direction of engine rotation and watch the piston control rod drop. When the piston is toward the bottom of the travel the pushrod gauge should come to a stop. If the pushrod gauge continues to travel down and does not stop you are on the wrong stroke for the piston and need to rotate the engine 360 degrees and start the process over in step 6. When the piston gauge reaches bottom and the pushrod indicator stops moving, go ahead and “zero” the camshaft gauge.

Step 7: Measure Push Rod Travel

Refer to the Injection timing chart and find the Piston Travel for your timing code. Go in opposite of engine rotation back towards top dead center, watching your camshaft gauge closely, counting each rotation as the gauge comes around back to zero. Pass by top dead center, taking the engine past the piston travel spec and then reverse your rotation back to regular engine rotation stopping right are the piston travel spec. Take note of the measurement on the push rod gauge. How many times did the gauge travel around plus what is the gauge measuring now. The measurement you get is the push rod travel spec. Refer to your Injection timing chart in order to find out if you need to add or take away shims on the cam follower box.

Step 8: Repeat for All Cam Follower Boxes

repeat steps 4 through 7 until you achieve Nominal timing specs on each of the three cam follower boxes

Helpful notes. 

  • Thicker gaskets equal lesser degrees of timing travel. 
  • For a better performing engine shoot to have the spec within the “nominal” range on the chart. 
  • Always torque the cam follower box to the 35 ft lb each time you add gaskets. 
  • It is acceptable practice to stack gaskets and shims keeping in mind you always have a permaseal gasket towards the block as the inside gasket. It is ideal to have as few stacked gaskets as possible.
  • With a typical push rod dial indicator the indicator is traveling backwards. Keep that in mind when counting and adding the rotations etc. 
  • Some engines like the V903 cummins require you to change the cam key way in order to adjust the push tube timing instead of the cam rocker box gasket thickness. 
  • A rule of thumb that we have found when trying to decipher how many shims to add is for every .008″ of shims added it will decrease the travel measurement by .002

Pro Tips for Cummins Injector Timing Accuracy

  • Thicker gaskets = less push rod travel (retarded timing).
  • Every 0.008″ of shim reduces travel by ~0.002″.
  • Always torque bolts after each gasket adjustment.
  • Use as few stacked gaskets as possible.
  • Push rod dial indicators often travel in reverse—track rotations carefully.
  • V903 engines require cam key changes instead of gasket swaps.

If you’re troubleshooting injector push rod issues or trying to resolve inconsistent travel readings, check out our guide on injector push rod troubleshooting for practical fixes.

Reference Timing Specs

For detailed push rod travel specs by engine series and timing code, refer to the official Injection Timing Chart Using ST-593 or ST-840. This chart includes nominal, fast, and slow travel ranges for NH, NT, V6-V8, V-12, and other Cummins platforms.

Final Thoughts

Cummins push tube timing isn’t just a rebuild checklist item—it’s a performance-critical calibration. Whether you’re working on a fleet overhaul or a single reman job, following this guide ensures your Cummins engine fires with precision.

Need help interpreting your timing chart or troubleshooting a stubborn follower box? Drop us a message or check out our full Cummins rebuild support library.

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ISX Cummins Static Timing

Static timing is the process of setting the initial engine timing—while the engine is off—to ensure proper startup and operation. For the Cummins ISX, a modern diesel engine, accurate static timing is essential for fuel injection and valve synchronization. Although the ECM (Engine Control Module) dynamically adjusts timing during operation, static timing establishes the critical baseline.

Why Static Timing Is Necessary for the ISX

  • Reliable startup: Static timing gives the engine a baseline timing value that helps it fire up smoothly. Without it, starting can be difficult or impossible—especially after major repairs.
  • Avoid engine damage: Incorrect static timing can cause valves and pistons to collide—especially in interference engines. This can lead to catastrophic failure. Setting timing correctly avoids these high-risk scenarios.
  • Post-repair setup: Incorrect static timing can cause valves and pistons to collide—especially in interference engines. This can lead to catastrophic failure. Setting timing correctly avoids these high-risk scenarios.
  • Baseline performance: The ECM adjusts timing based on speed, load, and other conditions. Static timing sets the “home base” for those calculations. If it’s off, you’ll see reduced power, poor fuel economy, and higher emissions.
  • Internal synchronization: The ISX engine relies on precise coordination between the crankshaft and camshafts. Static timing ensures proper injector lift and valve movement at the right crankshaft degrees.

Real-World Technician Insights

Static timing isn’t just a textbook procedure—it’s a common point of confusion among technicians. The following forum excerpts illustrate how often it’s misunderstood or oversimplified in practice:

  • On XWeb Forums, one user describes static timing as “just to get you in the ball park,” implying that dynamic timing alone can compensate for poor baseline setup. This reflects a common misconception that leads to performance issues.
  • A JustAnswer thread highlights recurring problems with injector lift and valve timing on Gen 2 ISX engines—underscoring the need for precise static timing during assembly and repair.

These real-world discussions reinforce why static timing must be done correctly—not just approximated.

Risks of incorrect static timing

  • Knocking or pinging Early ignition creates pressure against a piston still in its compression stroke, leading to knocking.
  • Poor fuel economy Late timing causes incomplete combustion. Early timing can also reduce efficiency if pressure peaks too soon.
  • Overheating Mistimed combustion generates excess heat, damaging internal components.
  • Increased emissions Incomplete combustion leads to excess soot and harmful exhaust gases.
CPL#UsageTiming Wedge (Injector Cam)Timing Wedge (Valve Cam)Nominal Timing Measurement
(4)0927ISX CM871460.5510
(4)1434ISX CM871460.5530
(4)1437ISX CM871460.5530
(4)2732ISX CM871460.5525
(4)2733ISX CM871460.5515
(4)2734ISX CM871460.5439
(4)2919ISX CM871460.5439
(4)2965ISX CM871460.5439
(4)3167ISX CM871460.5530
(4)3229ISX CM871460.5439
(4)3320ISX CM871460.5439
3745ISX CM871460.5530
3746ISX CM871460.5530
3747ISX CM871460.5510
3748ISX CM871460.5525
3749ISX CM871460.5515
3750ISX CM871460.5439
3751ISX CM871460.5439
3752ISX CM871460.5439
8125ISX CM870460.5468
8127ISX CM870460.5468
8259ISX CM870460.5468
8260ISX CM870460.5468
8281ISX CM870460.5468
8282ISX CM870460.5468
8283ISX CM870460.5468
8284ISX CM870460.5468
8285ISX CM870460.5468
8286ISX CM870460.5468
8287ISX CM870660.5086
8288ISX CM870660.5086
8518ISX CM870460.5468
8519ISX CM870460.5468
8520ISX CM870660.5086
8521ISX CM870660.5086
8522ISX CM870460.5468
8523ISX CM870660.5086
2440ISX CM570760.479
2441ISX CM570460.533
2442ISX CM570460.533
2483ISX CM570460.533
2628ISX CM570460.475
2629ISX CM570460.475
2630ISX CM570460.533
2631ISX CM570460.475
2632ISX CM570460.475
2801ISX CM570460.533
2803ISX CM570760.479
2813ISX CM570460.475
2814ISX CM570460.475
2816ISX CM570460.5330
2834ISX CM570460.5330
2835ISX CM570460.5330
2836ISX CM570460.5330
2837ISX CM570460.5330
2867ISX CM570460.5330
2900ISX CM570460.5330
2933ISX CM570460.4750
2934ISX CM570460.4750
8046ISX CM570460.475
8047ISX CM570460.475
8048ISX CM570460.4750
8049ISX CM570460.475
8082ISX CM570460.475
8083ISX CM570460.475
8084ISX CM570460.475
8142ISX CM570460.4749
8172ISX CM570460.533
8242ISX CM570460.4750
8243ISX CM570460.4750
8244ISX CM570460.4750
8245ISX CM570460.4750
8246ISX CM570460.5330
8247ISX CM570460.5330
8255ISX CM570460.4750
8256ISX CM570460.4750
8257ISX CM570460.4750
8258ISX CM570460.4750
(4)1732ISX CM570460.4544
(4)1771ISX CM570460.4750
2627QSX CM570460.4749
2825QSX CM570460.4749
2958QSX CM570460.533
8081QSX CM570460.4749
8469QSX CM570460.4749
8571QSX CM570460.4749
8587QSX CM570460.4749
8588QSX CM570460.4749
8760QSX CM570460.4544
8761QSX CM570460.4544
8762QSX CM570460.4544
(4)3087QSX CM570460.4544
(4)3088QSX CM570460.4544
(4)8741QSX CM570460.4749
(4)8742QSX CM570460.4749

NOTE: For nominal timing values not available, use wedges to measure timing.

NOTE: For CM871 engines showing symptoms like white smoke or premature oil filter plugging, use ±0.003″ tolerance from nominal. For others, ±0.006″ applies.

NOTE: CPL’s for single camshaft ISX15 CM2250 engines are not contained in this document because injection timing is not set with wedges; however, please note that all ISX valve camshafts are timed with a 6 degree wedge including single camshaft CPL’s not listed.

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Shipping Reman Engines Internationally: What to Expect and How SRX Makes It Easy

A large diesel engine is being loaded onto a cargo ship with a crane. In the background, a semi-truck and a farm tractor are visible, representing international shipping for diverse industries.

The global demand for reliable diesel power is undeniable. Businesses worldwide depend on robust engines for their commercial vehicles, industrial equipment, marine vessels, and agricultural machinery. At Select Reman Exchange (SRX Engines), we understand that sourcing a high-quality remanufactured diesel engine often means looking beyond local borders. Therefore, we’ve streamlined our international shipping process. We want to ensure global customers receive their engines efficiently and with complete peace of mind.

Navigating International Shipping: Your Key Considerations

Shipping heavy, specialized items like diesel engines across international lines involves a few key steps. Understanding these can help set proper expectations:

  1. Documentation is Crucial: Every international shipment requires meticulous paperwork. This typically includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading. Depending on the destination, you might also need additional documents, like a certificate of origin.
  2. Customs and Duties: When your engine arrives, customs will clear it. This process involves assessing import duties, taxes, and other fees. Your country’s regulations determine these charges. You are responsible for these fees.
  3. Freight and Logistics: Because of their weight, we typically ship diesel engines via ocean freight. This is a cost-effective option. Alternatively, we use air freight for expedited delivery. We always carefully crate and secure the engine to prevent any damage during transit.
  4. Transit Times: International shipping takes time. Ocean freight typically has longer transit periods, while air freight is much faster but costs more. Furthermore, customs processing times and port congestion can also impact your delivery schedule.

How SRX Engines Simplifies International Logistics

At SRX Engines, our goal is to make acquiring a new, used, or remanufactured diesel engine as smooth as possible. We manage the complexities of international shipping on your behalf.

  • Expert Documentation Handling: Our team knows the necessary export documents. We prepare and manage the essential paperwork, ensuring accuracy and compliance. This helps us prevent delays at customs.
  • Secure Packaging: We professionally crate and secure every engine. We use robust materials to protect your investment from our facilities in Linden, MI, or South Bend, IN, all the way to your destination.
  • Experienced Freight Forwarders: We partner with reputable freight forwarders. These experts specialize in heavy international cargo. They handle the logistics of getting your engine to the port or airport and onto the vessel or plane.
  • Clear Communication: We aim to provide as much clarity as possible about shipping costs and estimated transit times upfront. Our sales team can answer your questions and guide you through the process.
  • Global Reach for Top Brands: We can facilitate the international delivery of many top engine brands. For example, we ship Caterpillar C15 engines to Europe, Cummins ISX engines to Asia, Detroit Diesel engines for marine vessels, and John Deere engines for agricultural machinery in South America.

Your International Engine Solution Starts Here

Don’t let geographical distance deter you from accessing the high-quality diesel engines you need. SRX Engines commits to supporting our international customers. We provide not just superior remanufactured engines, but also a streamlined, reliable shipping process. Ready to power your operation with an SRX engine, no matter where you are in the world? Contact SRX Engines today to discuss your engine needs and international shipping options. Our team is ready to assist you every step of the way.

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From Freightliner to Farm: Real Stories from SRX Customers in the Field

A large red and white marine vessel, an offshore tugboat, with an orange work deck floats on the open ocean under a partly cloudy sky. This type of vessel often relies on powerful diesel engines, such as those remanufactured by SRX Engines, for marine applications.

Here at SRX Engines, we’re more than just a supplier of quality diesel engines and parts – we’re a partner in keeping your vital operations running smoothly. Day in and day out, we hear incredible stories from our customers, tales of resilience, hard work, and the crucial role our remanufactured engines play in their success. Today, we’re excited to share a few of these real-life experiences from the field.

A Long Haul Hero: Reviving a Reliable Freightliner

For owner-operator Mark Olsen, time is money. His Freightliner Cascadia is the backbone of his livelihood, hauling goods across state lines. When his engine finally gave out, the prospect of downtime was daunting. “I was looking at weeks without income,” Mark shared with us. “The quote for a brand-new engine was astronomical. That’s when a fellow driver recommended SRX.”

Mark was impressed by the transparent process and the detailed specifications of SRX’s remanufactured Caterpillar C15. He explained, “They didn’t just slap it back together. Instead, they showed me the rigorous testing, the new components – it felt like getting a new engine without the hefty price tag.”

Mark’s experience highlights a common theme: the reliability and cost-effectiveness of SRX remanufactured engines are a game-changer for those in the transportation industry. As a result, he was back on the road within days, his Freightliner roaring with renewed power. Ultimately, this allowed him to continue serving his clients and providing for his family.

Keeping the Harvest Going: An Agricultural Lifesaver

The demands of farming are relentless, and when crucial equipment breaks down, the consequences can be significant, especially during peak seasons. For Sarah Miller, a third-generation farmer managing a large acreage of corn and soybeans, a sudden engine failure in her John Deere tractor threatened to derail the entire harvest.

“We were in the middle of cutting silage, and the tractor just died,” Sarah recounted. “The local dealership quoted a long lead time for a new engine, and we simply didn’t have that kind of time. Every day lost meant potential crop damage and missed deadlines.”

From Breakdown to Breakthrough: SRX to the Rescue

Desperate for a solution, Sarah’s mechanic contacted SRX. They quickly identified a suitable remanufactured John Deere engine in their inventory and expedited the shipping. “I was amazed at how fast they worked,” Sarah said. “Within 48 hours, we had the new engine on the farm and ready to be installed. It literally saved our harvest.”

Sarah’s story underscores the critical role SRX plays in supporting the agricultural sector. Our ability to provide readily available, dependable remanufactured engines minimizes downtime and ensures that farmers can continue their essential work of feeding our communities.

Beyond the Road and the Field

These are just two examples of the countless ways SRX Engines is making a difference for our customers. For instance, our remanufactured engines are powering construction equipment and keeping marine vessels running smoothly, providing reliable and cost-effective solutions across a diverse range of industries.

We believe that every engine has a story, and we’re proud to be a part of our customers’ success stories. Their feedback and experiences drive us to continue delivering the highest quality remanufactured engines and exceptional service.

Have your own SRX story to share? We’d love to hear it! Connect with us on social media or contact our team directly.

At SRX Engines, we’re committed to providing the power you need, wherever the job takes you – from the long haul on a Freightliner to the demanding work on the farm. Contact us today to learn how our remanufactured engines can keep your operations running strong.

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Diesel Engines Rebuilt vs. Remanufactured

A technician checking a component of a remanufactured diesel engine.

Choosing a remanufactured diesel engine gives you unmatched quality, performance, and longevity for your heavy-duty equipment. Unlike rebuilt or refurbished options, our engines meet or exceed OEM standards, delivering the reliability you need. At SRX Engines, we rigorously inspect, test, and remanufacture every engine to ensure it’s ready to handle the toughest jobs. When you select one of our expertly restored diesel engines, you’re investing in durability and peak performance.

Understanding the Difference: Rebuilt vs. Remanufactured

  • Rebuilt: This process involves taking an engine or part apart, replacing only the worn or out-of-spec components, and reassembling it. Common in the industry, this method may include used parts that are merely cleaned and tested but aren’t new.
  • Remanufactured (SRX Standard): At SRX, true remanufacturing means all components meet new-spec standards. Every part is inspected, machined, and replaced as necessary, ensuring a product that is as close to new as possible. We don’t settle for “used”—our remanufactured parts are thoroughly rebuilt with new components for long-lasting reliability.
Technicians assembling a remanufactured diesel engine.
  • Comprehensive Disassembly and Inspection
    • Every engine core is stripped down to the bare block, with parts like the block, crank, rods, and cylinder head undergoing detailed inspections:
      • Magnaflux crack checks
      • Crankshaft hardness and straightness tests
      • All parts machined back to OEM specifications
  • Precision Cylinder Head Remanufacturing
    • Remanufactured with new seals, guides, springs, keepers, and other components, guaranteeing durability and consistent performance.
    • We use and proudly endorse PAI Industries rebuild kits.
  • Commitment to Quality
    • Our mission is to deliver high-quality, reliable engines with every detail considered—ensuring customer satisfaction and extending the life of each engine.
A technician checking a component of a remanufactured diesel engine.
  • Complete Remanufacturing
    • Each engine is reassembled with all-new parts such as pistons, liners, bearings, gaskets, seals, turbos, injectors, water pumps, and oil coolers—every component required for dependable, effective operation.
  • Testing and Quality Control
    • Once assembled, each engine undergoes rigorous testing on our test stand to confirm quality and performance.
  • Final Touches
    • After passing all quality checks, each engine is professionally painted, packaged, and prepared for delivery, ready to perform from day one.
  • Contact SRX Engines
  • About SRX Engines
    • SRX Engines is a dedicated remanufacturer of diesel engines, offering long blocks, complete-running remanufactured engines, and individual parts designed to maximize performance and reliability.
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A Decade of Reliable Service for Spink Insulation’s Fleet

Johnny Larocque Crew Leader for Spink Insulation at the company's Jackson, Michigan location with one of the company trucks.

At SRX Engines, we pride ourselves on delivering top-notch remanufactured engines that stand the test of time. For over a decade, we’ve had the privilege of partnering with Spink Insulation, helping them keep their fleet of trucks running smoothly. One of their key team members, Crew Leader Johnny Larocque, recently shared his experience working with SRX and the lasting impact our engines have had on their operations.

How It All Started

Johnny’s journey with SRX Engines began in an unexpected way. While sourcing parts at Fleet Pride, Johnny had a chance encounter that led him to our team. A gentleman handed him a card, saying, “Call Clay.” From that day on, Johnny has trusted Clay and the SRX Engines team to provide remanufactured motors for Spink Insulation’s trucks.

“And from that day forward, I’ve called Clay and have just dealt with clay on the remains of motors,” said Larocque.

Long-Lasting Engines for High-Demand Operations

The first engine that SRX Engines delivered to Spink Insulation has become a symbol of our commitment to quality and durability. This engine has been running strong for over ten years with just routine maintenance and oil changes.

“… that very first motor. I mean, we never had one issue. And it’s still going today,” said Larocque adding that the same injectors are still in the motor and nothing besides routine maintenance has been performed on it.

Given that Spink Insulation trucks often run 8 to 10 hours a day—sometimes longer—this longevity is no small feat. Johnny emphasizes the heavy workload their vehicles endure considering the truck’s motor also drives the insulation machine, “… the truck gets to the job and then the truck still has to run for that many hours to do the job.”

Exceptional Customer Service

What sets SRX Engines apart isn’t just the quality of our remanufactured engines; it’s the personal attention and fast response time that Johnny has come to rely on. Whether it’s a question about a turbo ring or a more complex issue, Johnny knows that SRX is just a phone call away.

“I don’t have to deal with middlemen,” Johnny explains. “I make one call to SRX,” he added. Whether it’s through a phone call, a FaceTime walkthrough, or sending over a diagram — the dedication to making sure customers understand the solution for next time is incredible.

A Trusted Partnership

Over the past ten years, SRX Engines has supplied Spink Insulation with approximately ten engines, all of which are still running smoothly today. Johnny notes how crucial this reliability is to their business and keeping insulation customers well served and the team members fully engaged.

The Importance of Reliable Partners

For a company like Spink Insulation, having dependable partners is essential. Johnny stresses how SRX Engines has alleviated the stress of vehicle maintenance, allowing his team to focus on their work without worrying about downtime.

“I spent probably more hours chasing and trying to find stuff or someone to help me or give me direction,” Johnny says. One weak link can cause major issues for any business and with Spink, truck maintenance is vital. With SRX, engine problems are one less thing we have to worry about.

With a reliable partner like SRX Engines to call upon, Johnny describes it best, “I go home and I sleep well.”

Conclusion

At SRX Engines, we are proud to support businesses like Spink Insulation by providing high-quality, remanufactured engines that last. Johnny Larocque’s story is a testament to our commitment to excellence, both in our products and our customer service. With over ten years of partnership and a fleet of hard-working trucks to show for it, we look forward to continuing to power Spink Insulation’s success for many years to come.

From all of us at Select Reman Exchange — thank you to the team at Spink Insulation. 

Give them a call at 800.464.3307. Visit them at one of their three locations in Jackson, Ann Arbor or Lansing.

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Flint Welding Supply Preferred Businesses Spotlight Blog

SRX Engines in stock

The relationship between our shop and Flint Welding Supply is integral to the seamless operation at Select Reman Exchange. A remanufacturer relies heavily on welding equipment and materials to carry out a wide range of tasks, from fabricating custom parts to repairing structural damage. Flint Welding Supply plays a crucial role in ensuring that we have access to high-quality gas cylinders, electrodes, safety gear, and consumables.

What We Need, When We Need It

We use Flint Welding Supply for all of our propane for our equipment and for our forklifts. They deliver, which is a huge benefit.

We use torches often for disassembly of engines and having what we need in that arena really matters. We find ourselves needing to heat up crankshaft gears to remove them.

Awesome Customer Service

We bought a welder from Flint Welding Supply and it had an issue more than a year later. They came out, picked it up from us, took it back to their facility, repaired it and brought it back fixed. We recognize that is above and beyond and it’s much appreciated.

We operate on tight schedules, and any interruption in the supply chain can lead to delays and increased downtime, impacting customer satisfaction and profitability. Therefore, our relationship with Flint Welding Supply is built on the trust that they can deliver the right products in a timely manner. Thanks to Flint Welding Supply, we are well-equipped with the latest welding technology and materials.

On top of all this, the team at Flint Welding Supply also helps us stay updated with the latest welding techniques and safety measures. Our partnership is mutually beneficial, fostering growth and efficiency on both sides while contributing to the broader local economy and a healthy business community.

From all of us at Select Reman Exchange, we’d like to send a big thank you to the team at Flint Welding Supply. 

Give them a call at (810) 736-0050 or visit them at 2201 Branch Rd in Flint. 

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Complete Remanufacture of a Caterpillar 3044 Engine

Caterpillar 3044 Remanufacture

Check out this Caterpillar 3044 completely remanufactured by our talented team of technicians at Select Reman Exchange.

This Caterpillar 3044 engine faced a significant setback. We discovered a hole in the block due to a spun rod bearing and a broken connecting rod. We remanufactured this engine by replacing the block and crankshaft.

The Challenge: A Spun Rod Bearing Catastrophe

When our team received the Caterpillar 3044 engine, it presented a formidable challenge—an irreparable hole in the block caused by a spun rod bearing that had led to a broken connecting rod.

A Fresh Start: Replacing the Block

The first step in the remanufacturing process was the installation of a replacement block. This foundational component ensures the structural integrity of the engine, laying the groundwork for a robust and resilient power plant. Our selection of a high-quality block sets the stage for enhanced durability and longevity.

Precision in Motion: Sourcing a New Crankshaft

Our commitment to excellence led us to source and install a crankshaft that meets Caterpillar’s stringent standards.

Quality Assurance

Before the remanufactured Caterpillar 3044 engine could return to active duty, it underwent a series of rigorous testing protocols. Our dedication to quality assurance is a testament to our commitment to delivering reliable and high-performing engines.

Caterpillar 3044 Remanufacture

The successful remanufacture of a Caterpillar 3044 engine is just one example of the great work we do every day here at Select Reman Exchange. Trust in the reliability and durability of our remanufactured Caterpillar 3044 engines.

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Detroit Business Saves On Sandblaster Engine Remanufacture

Remanufactured C15 Industrial JRE Caterpillar

Check out this C15 Industrial JRE Caterpillar engine we completely remanufactured for M.K. Painting out of Metro Detroit. Another happy customer! 

This is the second engine M.K. Painting has purchased from us. The first was a 6.7 Cummins. This C15 engine was pressurizing the cooling system because the cylinder head was cracked. This is a common problem with the OEM cylinder heads. 

The engine had high hours, so to save the customer thousands over working directly with the manufacturer, they chose to get their remanufactured C15 Caterpillar done by our team of talented technicians at Select Reman Exchange. 

During this complete remanufacturing process, we installed a new casted cylinder head on this engine due to the customer’s head being cracked. If you have a cracked head, these can be purchased from us along with all the necessary gaskets to make an easy repair. Purchasing parts and labor through Select Reman Exchange commonly results in big savings over the competition. 

Remanufactured C15 Industrial JRE Caterpillar

This engine had so many hours that the front pulleys were worn from the rubber belts. The customer had us replace the V-belt pulleys as well. 

This engine is going in an industrial sandblaster that travels around the country prepping water tanks and towers for paint. M.K. Painting brings new life to old water tanks. According to their ownership, they have 25 years of experience and have rehabilitated over 500 elevated and ground storage tanks across the United States. We love to see local businesses thriving and are honored to have a small part in keeping them running smoothly. 

This engine is ready to go back to work!

Follow along on our Facebook page for more completed engines as they roll through our shop.

At Select Reman Exchange we often have many remanufactured engines in stock! Contact our sales team today to check our inventory.