STAND 1388403 - Caterpillar

The crankshaft changes the combustion forces in the cylinders into a usable rotating torque in order to send power from the crankshaft. Vibration dampers are used at the front of the crankshaft to reduce torsional vibrations (twist on crankshaft).The crankshaft has the following characteristics: press forging, induction hardened and regrindable. A counterweight for each cylinder is welded to the crankshaft. The crankshaft is then examined with an ultrasonic probe in order to ensure the integrity of the weld.Identical flanges are machined at each end of the crankshaft for the flywheel and vibration damper mounting. The front of the crankshaft can be distinguished from the rear of the crankshaft by the marking "FRONT" that is stamped on the center of the front hub. Also, the rear flange has tapped holes in order to mount the crankshaft timing pin bracket. Conversion to reverse engine rotation is possible without removing the crankshaft.The crankshaft for the 3606 Engine is supported by seven main bearings. The crankshaft for the 3608 Engine is supported by nine main bearings. Thrust that is developed by the crankshaft is absorbed by two half-circle steel reinforced aluminum plates. The plates are located in the counterbores of each side of the rear bearing saddle in the cylinder block.The crankshaft drives a group of gears on the front and rear of the engine. The gear group on the front of the engine drives the oil pump and water pumps. The gear group on the rear of the engine drives the camshafts and the optional alternator.Lip type crankshaft seals are used at each end of the crankshaft. The seal assemblies are fastened to the front housing and the rear housing. The lips of the seals contact the adapters that are bolted to each end of the crankshaft.Pressure oil is supplied to all the main bearings through drilled passages in the webs of the cylinder block. The oil flow through holes drilled in the crankshaft in order to provide oil for the connecting rod bearings.