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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.

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Top Three Reasons to Select a Remanufactured Diesel Engine vs Used

When it comes to replacing a diesel engine, the two main options are often buying a used engine or investing in a remanufactured one. While used engines may seem like a cost-effective solution at first, they often come with uncertainties regarding their condition and reliability. On the other hand, remanufactured diesel engines offer several advantages that make them a superior choice. In this blog, we will explore the top three reasons to select a remanufactured diesel engine over a used one.

1. Reliability and Performance:

One of the key advantages of remanufactured diesel engines is the assurance of reliability and enhanced performance. Unlike used engines, remanufactured ones undergo a comprehensive process that involves dismantling, cleaning, inspecting, replacing worn-out components, and reassembling to meet or exceed original specifications. This meticulous refurbishment ensures that any faulty or worn-out parts are replaced, resulting in an engine that performs like new.

Remanufactured diesel engines are often backed by warranties, giving you peace of mind and protection against unexpected failures. Manufacturers stand behind their remanufactured engines, providing reliable support in case of any issues. This level of reliability and performance is seldom found with used engines, as their history, maintenance, and overall condition can be uncertain.

2. Cost-effectiveness and Longevity:

While used diesel engines may initially seem cheaper, they can potentially end up costing more in the long run. Used engines typically require additional expenses for inspections, repairs, and part replacements. On the contrary, remanufactured diesel engines offer a cost-effective solution by delivering better longevity and reduced maintenance needs.

Remanufactured engines undergo thorough testing and quality control processes to ensure they meet strict standards. This results in an engine that has been reconditioned with quality parts and components, often making it more durable than a used engine. By investing in a remanufactured engine, you minimize the risk of unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs, ultimately saving money over time.

3. Environmental Sustainability:

Selecting a remanufactured diesel engine also has significant environmental benefits. By choosing a remanufactured engine, you contribute to the reduction of waste generated from used engines. Instead of discarding an old engine, remanufacturing extends its life cycle, reduces energy consumption, and lowers carbon emissions associated with manufacturing a new engine.

At SRX, we never re-use a part that doesn’t pass strict inspections and isn’t machined back to OEM specifications, but often components can see new life, keeping them out of a landfill. This sustainable practice reduces the demand for new raw materials, conserves natural resources, and minimizes the overall ecological footprint. By opting for a remanufactured diesel engine, you actively participate in the circular economy and support environmentally conscious practices.

When it comes to replacing a diesel engine, the advantages of selecting a remanufactured engine over a used one are evident. Comparatively, remanufactured diesel engines offer superior reliability, performance, and longevity. They undergo our rigorous refurbishment process, ensuring they meet or exceed original specifications. While used engines may seem cheaper initially, the long-term costs and uncertainties associated with their condition and maintenance often make them a less favorable choice.

Ultimately, investing in a remanufactured diesel engine is a wise decision that brings peace of mind, cost-effectiveness, and a greener future.

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.

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The Ultimate Heavy Haul Engine

The holy grail of engines is the C15 Acert MXS lower end with a single turbo 6NZ head. When the goal is to assemble the most reliable diesel engine possible — of course you don’t prioritize putting the biggest power numbers to the ground. Ultimately this reliability results in the most profit.

At Select Reman Exchange (SRX), we believe an appropriately powerful yet reliable engine can be in service for a million miles. When it does have issues, it is easy to work on because it doesn’t have EGR, DPF, or twin turbos.

Our build details

Our vast experience as diesel engine remanufacturers at SRX informs our opinions and recommendations for the ultimate heavy haul engine configuration. Using the MXS lower end you have a stronger, better quality casted cylinder block.

The crankshafts are the same between the engines, but You have a stronger connecting rod with 4-rod bolts instead of 2 connecting rod bolts like the 6NZ has. When building the MXS lower you can use the industrial piston pack out of a JRE C15 engine to achieve the same 16:1 compression ratio that the 6NZ has. This lower compression is better for bigger power and reliability.

One-piece MXS steel piston

They hold up to a lot more power and are more reliable than that two-piece 6NZ piston with the steel crown and aluminum piston skirt. The MXS lower end also has a higher-flowing cooling system. The water pump is larger and flows more keeping the engine cooler under higher load scenarios. 

Use new casted cylinder heads

Don’t use a remanufactured caterpillar head. They are prone to cracking. We offer an aftermarket casted cylinder head that has a better, thicker casting between the valves that eliminates the cracking issue that many people have run into. Our head will work for both the MXS and 6nz engines. 

For injectors, we like to use the 10R8502 injectors. We flow match the injectors giving you optimal performance and a smooth Idle. We typically have these injectors on the shelf. Call us and we can save you a lot over Caterpillar pricing. 

Programming

We do not recommend using an aftermarket program. We have seen countless issues on head gaskets that are directly caused by programs created by people that don’t really know what they are doing. We like to use the 6NZ 550 HP program. This has proven to be a great, reliable and powerful program. 

The 550 HP program does seem to build higher than desired EGTs. The best way to get rid of that heat is by installing a bigger turbocharger on the truck. We offer a new turbocharger that is perfect. It is reliable and builds awesome power but is not going to break the bank like a lot of the other unnecessarily expensive turbochargers. Another thing you can add to keep the EGTs down is a ceramic-coated aftermarket exhaust. We do not have one specific manifold to recommend for performance-related reasons, But we do thoroughly appreciate PAI’s Ceramic coated manifold as it seems to be a very quality product and does not break the bank. 

An added touch

Use the bigger 10R7155 camshaft for more reliability. Again, don’t go to Caterpillar to buy this camshaft. We at SRX can supply it to you at a fraction of the cost. 

In summary – a reliable powerhouse

With the bigger turbocharger, flow-matched injectors and the bigger camshaft we have seen many numbers in the 630 HP range.

If you are wanting to build this engine on your own we are here every step of the way to help! We can sell you all of the same parts we use in our own engines and save you thousands of dollars over going to Caterpillar. 

Always take into consideration the emissions laws and the states you are wanting to haul in. We always use an existing 6NZ engine to build from and would recommend you do the same. We have quite a few 6NZ engines left and would love to assist you in your core engine needs as well. 

Are you looking to buy a Caterpillar C15 like this?

We often have completely remanufactured and used Caterpillar C15 diesel engines in stock. An extensive and competitively-priced inventory of parts is on our shelves! Give our Sales or Parts Teams a call or visit our Contact Us page.

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PAI And Their Overhaul Kits Continue To Impress

PAI Diesel Engine Overhaul Kit

PAI Overhaul Kits have become an integral part of our success at Select Reman Exchange and we’d like to share our experience. SRX has been using PAI Overhaul kits exclusively and other products from PAI for several years. 

Before PAI

“In the beginning, we used other manufacturers’ kits that did not seem to be up to our standards and we experienced an uncomfortable rate of failure,” said SRX Production Manager Chuck Pratt.

Production Manager Chuck Pratt observes a technician working on an engine.
PAI Diesel Engine Overhaul Kit
PAI Diesel Engine Overhaul Kit

And when failures occurred getting satisfaction through warranty coverage was not always easy. “When it came time to work with them for warranty purposes, it was very difficult to get any answers and the support we needed for using their products,” added Pratt.

The PAI Difference

We tried several PAI kits and our engine builders were very impressed with the components and packaging quality. 

Since that time we have purchased hundreds of kits and other parts from PAI for our engine builds and we have had tremendous success with their products. With that relatively high number of parts there is bound to be an issue and Pratt underscored how that’s when PAI continued to shine. “We have had only 2 engine failures that were attributed to a product issue, which PAI’s engineering team addressed immediately,” he said.

PAI Diesel Engine Overhaul Kit
PAI Diesel Engine Overhaul Kit

The warranty process is very straightforward and smooth. PAI has surpassed our expectations with their quality of product and their willingness to help when an issue does arise. Pratt added, “their technical support department is better than anyone else’s out there hands down.”

Select Reman Exchange
Select Reman Exchange Team

Thank you to PAI Industries and we look forward to many more years of using your fantastic products keeping our customers’ engines running.

Contact Select Reman Exchange today to learn more about our remanufactured engines and how we can help you get the most out of your diesel engine.

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Caterpillar 3116 Facts: A Good Engine With A Bad Reputation

Caterpillar 3116 Remanufactured

A staple of the diesel engine industry for decades, the Caterpillar 3116 has a reputation problem, but that doesn’t mean it’s all bad. Here are the Caterpillar 3116 facts.

“3116 engines are often misunderstood. When properly tuned with the right tooling they can be a great and dependable engine,” said SRX General Manager Clay Conn.

This versatile and reliable engine delivers excellent performance and longevity, making it a popular choice for a wide range of applications. Whether you are looking for an engine for on-highway, industrial, or marine use, the Caterpillar 3116 is a great option that is sure to meet your needs.

Caterpillar 3116 Remanufactured
Caterpillar 3116 Remanufactured

Quality Where it Counts

One of the key reasons why the Caterpillar 3116 is so reliable is its design. This engine was designed with durability in mind, and it packs a number of features that help to ensure that it lasts a long time. For example the 3116 has a high-quality fuel system and a powerful turbocharger that help to ensure that it runs smoothly and efficiently.

Another reason why the Caterpillar 3116 is so reliable is its strong lower end. The most common failure we see from a 3116 engine is injector cup failure causing the customer to think they have a blown head gasket, or blowby/ring issue. It is very rare for us to see one of these engines with a spun bearing or broken connecting rod. The same crankshaft,  connecting rod, and block design was used in the 3126 and the C7 engine. Even in the higher horsepower applications of the C7 engine we rarely see a bottom-end failure. We had a Caterpillar 3126 come in with a thrown rod in 2019. Not a pretty sight.

Caterpillar 3116 Remanufactured
Caterpillar 3116 Remanufactured

Why Remanufactured from SRX?

At Select Reman Exchange, we are proud to offer remanufactured Caterpillar 3116 engines that are built to the highest standards of quality and reliability. In order to remedy the common failures of the 3116 engines we have a couple of extra steps to our remanufacturing process that ensures a quality product that will last a long time. In order to remedy the blowby and ring issues we install a new repair sleeve in the cylinder block in place of the original porous block casting. This ensures a lot less cylinder distortion under high-boost applications. The main reason for the premature ring failure is cylinder wall distortion under high cylinder pressure, high-boost applications. The distortion of the cylinder causes the rings to wear out prematurely. Our blocks are proven to last longer and be stronger with the new standard-size sleeves. During our remanufacturing process, in order to remedy the injector cup failures that are common in the 3116 engines, every cylinder head receives new upgraded injector cups and new seals. We also have an upgraded injector tip eliminating the injector tip O-ring, and replacing it with a steel ring integrated into the injector tip. This eliminates the need for the ever-failing injector tip O-rings and causes for a more confident seal in the cup. 

Caterpillar 3116 Remanufactured
Caterpillar 3116 Remanufactured

We Can Help

Our experienced technicians take great care in rebuilding these engines, and they use only the highest-quality components to ensure that they last a long time. We are confident in the quality of our remanufactured engines, and we back them with a nationwide warranty for your peace of mind.

In conclusion, the Caterpillar 3116 engine is a reliable and versatile diesel engine that is well-suited for a wide range of applications. Whether you are looking for an engine for on-highway, industrial, or marine use, the Caterpillar 3116 is a great option that is sure to meet your needs. So why not choose a remanufactured Caterpillar 3116 engine from Select Reman Exchange today and experience the reliability and performance that this engine has to offer?

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Is The Caterpillar C15 The Best Heavy-Duty Engine Ever Produced?

Illustrating the block of a Caterpillar C15 diesel engine.

What features and history of the Caterpillar C15 help it compete for the title of best heavy-duty diesel engine? Many people have and continue to argue about it. However, it is not far from the truth. At Select Reman Exchange (SRX) we recognize the Caterpillar C15 as a legendary diesel engine. It’s known for its power, reliability, fuel efficiency, and versatility. Once and still is a very popular choice for many fleets and owner-operators for its performance and reliability.

The Caterpillar C15 diesel is a fantastic on-highway engine. Its ability to handle a wide variety of applications and environments make it a popular choice in other vocations.

The Formidable Caterpillar C15

By Chuck Pratt

Here at SRX, we have been remanufacturing the C15 engine for many years, as well as its predecessor the 3406E. To be transparent, we may be a little biased, because they are our favorite engines to build.

First produced in 1998 by Caterpillar Inc., the C15 “Single Turbo Engine” had numerous applications. C15s are used in construction equipment, agricultural equipment, marine applications, power generation systems and water pumping stations.

The C15 engine is known for its durability and reliability. It is also available in a variety of power ratings. Ranging from 375 horsepower to 625 horsepower from Caterpillar. Many Truck-Rodders push these engines upward of 1000+ horsepower with modifications. One of the key features of the Caterpillar C15 diesel engine is its rock-solid design for durability.

Laboratory tests and engine disassembly analysis, plus years of “actual proof”, have proven the C15 engines typically have a life span of one million miles with Cat’s recommended maintenance schedule. The engine from Caterpillar was built with high-quality materials and components, which helps to ensure long-lasting performance and durability. High-strength connecting rods and a robust crankshaft help to reduce wear and premature bearing failure.

Another key advantage of the Caterpillar C15 is its fuel efficiency. The engine has a number of features that help to reduce fuel consumption, such as an innovative fuel system and a fuel-efficient combustion process. These features help to reduce operating costs for fleets, companies and owner-operators who rely on it.

When Caterpillar designed the C15, it is no secret that it was entirely based on the 3406E.

The 3406E was a solid engine but it needed some improvements for reliability and emissions. One of those key changes that they made was the use of a higher-volume oil pump. With the higher volume oil pump, it obviously would supply better lubrication to the entire engine. But it also helps in reducing the engine operating temperature. In addition to the high-volume oil pump, they upped the volume of the water pump as well for better cooling capabilities. Another benefit Caterpillar added was better gaskets and seals. The “E” Models as they are commonly referred to, had issues with oil leaks and coolant leaks. Some of which were addressed by Cat in the later E-model engines, but not all. Thankfully Caterpillar addressed those issues with the release of the C15.

The first Caterpillar C15

The 6NZ engine serial number prefix was the first Caterpillar C15 diesel to be released. It was first built in July 1998 and enjoyed a lengthy production run until June 2005, with 99,900 engines made. To this day, the 6NZ is a very highly sought-after engine. It is very popular amongst owner-operators who are looking for an engine that will go 1 million miles without all the persnickety little failures that plagued other engine manufacturers from the same time period. The 6NZ C15 was reliable, efficient, and powerful.

In June of 2005, Caterpillar began production of the 9NZ prefix and continued production until February of 2009, with 18,500 engines produced.

Illustrating the block of a Caterpillar C15 diesel engine.

At the end of 2001 Caterpillar began production of the MBN prefix C15. It was produced until February 2003. The MBN is frequently referred to as the “bridge” engine. It was designed to bridge the gap between the pre-emissions 6NZ and the Twin turbo ACERT (Emissions) engines. A choked-out 6NZ was achieved through ECM programming with abysmal fuel mileage, low power, and high exhaust temperatures. It was so bad, that a lot of customers chose to swap the MBN out for a different engine. Until people began to realize that they could just change the ECM program. Nowadays, the MBN “mechanical” platform ranks a close 2nd to a 6NZ. It’s an option for a powerful and reliable engine for those discerning owners who want to keep their classic trucks going strong.

The ACERT Era

In an effort to meet the EPA 2004 Emissions regulations, Caterpillar released the ACERT. More commonly referred to as the twin-turbo. It stands for Advanced Combustion Emissions Reduction Technology.

The first version of the ACERT was released in March of 2003 with a Serial Number Prefix of BXS. The BXS C15 had a relatively short production span as it was last produced in December of 2004, with a total of 39,000 units made.

Later, in March of 2003 Caterpillar also released the MXS serial number prefix. This MXS version of the C15 incorporated the engine brake housing and the variable valve actuators into the same housing. Whereas on the BXS they were 2 separate housings. The MXS was the most popular version of the ACERT C15 with 100,000 units produced between March 2003 and July 2006. Next up was the NXS serial number prefix.

The NXS C15 is exactly the same as the MXS, with no differences at all. The change in the prefix was because Caterpillar ran out of serial numbers under the MXS prefix. Caterpillar produced 33,000 NXS C15 Engines from July 2006 until April 2009.

Finally came the SDP prefix C15.

First released in January 2005, the SDP was Caterpillar’s final attempt to keep up with the ever-changing EPA On-Highway emissions regulations. By incorporating a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF system). They also redesigned the turbochargers to have a ball bearing supporting the turbo shaft instead of brass bearings. This made the cost of a turbocharger replacement much more expensive. They also changed the fuel injectors and redesigned the oil cooler setup. Production of the SDP C15 ended in March 2009, with a total of 22,700 engines made. From technicians’ and owners’ standpoint, the SDP is like COVID-19, most technicians don’t know how to diagnose and treat it, and the
owners don’t want it.

When parts and machines fail, choose SRX to be your go-to source for all your engine parts, and remanufacturing needs. Whether it be a boost pressure sensor, a failed oil cooler, or your engine needs to be completely remanufactured. Not only just the Mighty C15, but many others.
To all of us here at SRX, there is nothing sweeter and more rewarding than the first time a freshly remanufactured engine takes its first deep breaths. When air mixes with dinosaur juice, and lets out its first throaty roars of a new life, and shakes the ground … dang! That just gave me chills thinking about it.

Charles Pratt is a Diesel Technician for Select Reman Exchange with 25 years of experience.

Illustrating the block of a Caterpillar C15 diesel engine.

Are you looking to buy a Caterpillar C15?

We often have completely remanufactured, long block, and used Caterpillar C15 diesel engines in stock. An extensive and competitively-priced inventory of parts is on our shelves! Give our Sales or Parts Teams a call or visit our Contact Us page.

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Diesel Engine Remanufacturing: Our Process

An Engine Technician uses a socket wrench on a remanufactured diesel engine

Here at Select Reman Exchange, we are a diesel engine remanufacturer. We provide long blocks, complete-running remanufactured engines, and parts.

When an engine core comes in the door, it’s going to be completely disassembled right down to the bare block. All the machine work, the block, the crank, the rods, and the cylinder head are all going to be sent out to our machine shop and inspected from top to bottom. Everything is machined back within OEM specifications. Magnaflux crack checked, crankshaft hardness test, and checked for straightness. Cylinder heads are remanufactured with all-new seals, guides, springs, keepers etc …

Simply put, we never cut corners. For us, it’s about the quality and then the happiness and satisfaction of that end user and the longevity of that engine.

Once the machine work comes back from our machine shop, your engine is going to be remanufactured with all new pistons, liners, bearings, gaskets, seals, turbos, injectors, water pumps, oil coolers and everything that it takes to make that engine run and run effectively and be reliable. It’s going to be remanufactured properly!

Once the engine is assembled, that engine goes on the test stand to go through the quality control checks and processes. And once it’s done in the test room, it’s then sent to the paint department. It gets a nice pretty coat of paint put on it and packaged up and ready to ship.

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Why Select a Used Engine Core vs Remanufactured?

Every day here at Select Reman exchange we get at least one phone call from a customer looking for a used engine. We do carry used engine cores in stock and have sold many to customers that do not have issues. If you are inquiring about a used engine over a reman engine please take a couple things into consideration.

      How well was the engine maintained? Even though we take the time to inspect and run every used engine that is sold here at SRX engines, it is difficult to know exactly how well the last owner of the engine maintained the engine. We usually get the engines from auctions or from wrecked trucks. Sometimes they come with good records of the up-keep on the engine, and sometimes they do not. If the engine was ran with dirty oil or dirty fuel there can be many headaches and down time in your near future from failed injectors, to blown turbochargers.
       How often will you be using the engine and how much does you or your business rely on it? Sometimes customers need an engine back up and running just to sell the piece of equipment, or other times they only use the equipment for menial tasks that don’t require reliability. For customers like this, used engines can be a great thing. But, If the engine you are purchasing is used in a truck, boat, or piece of equipment that your main source of income is reliant on, then we look at that purchase as an investment. You are investing money into the equipment so that you can rely on it doing what it needs, so you can worry and focus on more important things for years to come. We would encourage people who need this reassurance and reliability to purchase a reman long block, or a complete engine. With great quality, and a solid warranty to back up our work, SRX engines can offer you a worry free reman engine for years to come.
          Are you really saving yourself money by purchasing used? SRX engines offers Long blocks and New surplus engines at a very competitive price. Often times you could purchase a long block for the same amount of money you can purchase a used lower mileage engine for. Used engines often only carry a 90 day warranty. If you were to have one issue outside of warranty, this can easily lead to over a thousand dollars in repairs. Where as, if you purchase a high quality reman long block, then you will be covered with a warranty for a lot longer period and are way less likely to have issues at all.
            Call our Select Reman Exchange sales team and get pricing on a reman long block engine and see where we can save you money today!