15.8L Caterpillar 3406E Custom Reman

[vincen47]

Though it’s not part of a completed truck build yet, I think an engine can be a model in itself. I’ve started my next truck conversion, a 1/24th scale black and chrome Peterbilt 379, and I’ve built a Cat 3406E for it's power. The resin engine is from Moluminum. It wears real Cat yellow, and includes several scratch-built extras. Further detailing will be added when it’s in-frame.

It represents a ‘99 15.8l E-Model 3406. Producing 600 plus horsepower, the final generation of these 964 cubic inch beasts were the precursor to the C16. This one has been remanufactured and up-fitted with chrome and ceramic parts, to boost the performance and style.

It’s representative of the custom engines from diesel shops that outfit gliders and other owner-operator rigs. Big Cats like this are highly sought-after for their power and pre-emissions reliability. They often find a second life in a glider or show truck.

it’s coupled to an 18 speed Eaton Autoshift transmission that’s been up-fitted with a trans oil cooler. The build was detailed using Ken Smith’s Car Modeller 3406E article and online photos for reference, many from Kustom Truck, an Oregon-based glider and diesel shop.

I hope you enjoy. Next on the bench: The rolling chassis.

[goingsouth58]

wow nice job

[Brian Dutz]

That’s a beautiful engine! Great job!

[DRIPTROIT 71]

Your engine looks great! I had one of these years ago from Clint Freeman. I used Ken Smith’s article as well back then. 
Given the transmission, is this going in one of the Internationals or do have other plans?

Edited October 12, 2020 by DRIPTROIT 71

[vincen47]

4 hours ago, DRIPTROIT 71 said:

Your engine looks great! I had one of these years ago from Clint Freeman. I used amen Smith’s article as well back then. 
Given the transmission, is this going in one of the Internationals or do have other plans?

Thanks! Yes, the trans was sourced from a Lonestar, along with the 11-bladed fan. It’ll find a home in the next RV conversion, built on a Pete 379.

[DRIPTROIT 71]

1 hour ago, vincen47 said:

Thanks! Yes, the trans was sourced from a Lonestar, along with the 11-bladed fan. It’ll find a home in the next RV conversion, built on a Pete 379.

I guess if I would have paid attention to the first part of your post I would have seen that it was going to be a 379.😃

Looking forward to seeing another great motorhome build!

[JPR]

Wow, that is awesome............ looks every bit the exact part, I can't wait to see it installed...

[vincen47]

Here are some updated photos. I noticed some spots that needed touch-up painting, and I added the lifting brackets. 

Most importantly, the valve covers needed refinishing, so I took care of that. 

[DRIPTROIT 71]

Looks Awesome!! Those lift brackets really add to the realistic look.

[Chariots of Fire]

Nice piece of work!  Lots and lots of details.  I like it!

[Cornbinder]

Damned shame that has to be covered up by a hood.

[NAVY]

All well worth the extra effort ! A beatiful build on its own.  I am currently building a turbo charged DD Silver 92 from 1979 .  I  will post pics when done, Those engines came in white, black or silver.  I have done one in silver previously, maybe black for this one? The exhaust has orange flames I am trying to replicate.  The Cats c olors are spot on. Love the valve covers. 

[vincen47]

Thanks guys for all of the compliments.

I’ve since modified the scratch-built alternator, making it a bit shorter.  I was going for a larger than standard size, but it was too large and too close to the intake piping. It looks much improved.
 

I plan to start the chassis this weekend and it’ll get more detail/parts added when it is put between the frame rails.

Edited December 23, 2020 by vincen47