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Cummins ISM 330 Specifications
| Engine Model: Cummins ISM-330 |
| Engine Type: 4-cycle 6-cylinder CELECT electronic fuel-injection liquid-cooled diesel |
| Total Displacement: 661 cu.in (10.8 L) |
| Rated Engine Power: 330 Hp (246 kW) at 2000 rpm |
| Aspiration Type: Turbocharged |
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| General Technical Data |
The Cummins ISM-330 is a heavy-duty, electronically controlled, turbocharged and aftercooled inline six-cylinder diesel engine engineered for on-highway trucks, vocational vehicles, buses, construction machinery, and industrial equipment. As part of the Cummins ISM/ISM/ISM11 engine family, the ISM-330 emphasizes high torque output, fuel efficiency, durable mechanical construction, and advanced electronic controls. It is widely recognized for its robust continuous-duty performance, long overhaul intervals, and excellent serviceability.
With a rated output of approximately 330
horsepower, the ISM 330 provides strong low-end and midrange torque,
reliable acceleration, and efficient cruising performance. The engine
meets emissions requirements of its production era through refined
combustion design, cooled EGR (depending on variant), and electronic
fuel system management. It is commonly used in regional haul trucks,
vocational dump trucks, mixers, transit buses, and medium industrial
platforms.
The Cummins ISM-330 is a four-stroke, inline six-cylinder engine with a
displacement of approximately 10.8 liters (661 cubic inches). Bore
typically measures 125 mm (4.92 inches), and stroke is approximately 147
mm (5.79 inches). The long-stroke configuration promotes strong torque
production at low engine speeds. Compression ratio typically ranges from
16.5:1 to 17.0:1 depending on calibration. Rated power output is
approximately 246 kW (330 horsepower) at around 1800–2100 rpm.
Peak torque generally ranges from 1350 to 1650
Nm (996–1217 lb-ft), most commonly available at 1200–1400 rpm. Idle
speed is usually set near 650–700 rpm. Firing order is 1–5–3–6–2–4.
Turbocharging and air-to-air charge-air cooling provide improved
combustion stability, higher power density, and reduced exhaust
temperature. The electronic control module (ECM) manages injection
timing, fuel quantity, turbocharger response, and protection strategies.
The cylinder block is constructed from heavy-duty cast iron engineered
to withstand high combustion pressures associated with modern heavy-duty
diesel operation. Reinforcement ribs increase structural stability and
reduce torsional vibration. The forged-steel crankshaft is supported by
seven large main bearings designed for long service life under
severe-duty operation. Wet or replaceable cylinder liners provide
consistent cooling and allow straightforward rebuild procedures.
Cast-in coolant jackets ensure uniform heat
dissipation. Precision-machined oil galleries distribute pressurized oil
to the crankshaft, connecting rods, camshaft bearings, and piston
cooling jets. Mounting pads and threaded bosses support installation in
on-highway trucks, vocational vehicles, and industrial platforms.
The cast-iron cylinder head incorporates direct-injection combustion
chambers optimized for turbocharged operation. Each cylinder has four
valves–two intake and two exhaust–providing improved airflow, reduced
emissions, and enhanced torque. Valves are actuated through pushrods and
rocker arms driven by a camshaft mounted in the block. Hardened valve
seats and high-strength valve guides tolerate high temperatures caused
by heavy-duty operation.
Combustion chamber geometry enhances swirl and atomization, supporting clean combustion and efficient fuel use. Integrated coolant passages maintain stable head temperature. Depending on version, hydraulic lash adjusters may be used to minimize maintenance. The head gasket is designed for high peak pressures and must be replaced during major service intervals.
| Fuel System |
The ISM 330 uses an electronically controlled fuel injection system. Depending on the production year, the engine may be equipped with the Cummins Celect, Celect Plus, or high-pressure common-rail (HPCR) fuel systems. Fuel is drawn by a lift pump through primary and secondary filters and then delivered to a high-pressure pump. Electronic injectors meter fuel precisely under ECM control. Injection pressures range from 1400 to 1700 bar (20,300–24,650 psi), allowing fine atomization and improved combustion efficiency.
Multiple injection events enhance torque, reduce emissions, and soften combustion noise. The ECM monitors key parameters including rail pressure, boost pressure, coolant temperature, intake temperature, crankshaft position, and camshaft position, adjusting fuel delivery and timing accordingly. Water separation and high-efficiency filtration protect the injection system from wear and contamination.
| Lubrication System |
A full-pressure lubrication system supplies oil to all critical components. A gear-driven pump draws oil from the sump through a pickup screen, delivering it through a full-flow oil filter before distributing it to the main oil gallery. Lubrication targets include crankshaft bearings, connecting rod journals, camshaft bearings, rocker arms, turbocharger bearings, and ancillary components. Piston cooling nozzles spray oil onto the underside of each piston to regulate temperature.
Normal operating oil pressure ranges between 300 and 500 kPa (44–72 psi). Idle pressure typically ranges from 100 to 150 kPa (15–22 psi). Oil capacity varies with sump configuration but generally ranges from 27 to 33 liters (28.5–34.8 US quarts). Engines equipped with aftertreatment systems require low-ash lubricants for long-term compatibility.
| Cooling System |
The ISM 330 uses a closed-loop liquid cooling system with a belt-driven centrifugal water pump. Coolant circulates through block and head passages to remove heat generated during combustion. The thermostat begins to open around 82°C (180°F) and reaches full opening near 95°C (203°F). Cooling system pressure typically ranges between 90 and 110 kPa (13–16 psi).
Coolant capacity varies with vehicle installation but commonly falls between 30 and 50 liters (31.7–52.8 US quarts). The air-to-air charge-air cooler reduces intake temperature, increasing combustion stability and torque output. Proper coolant chemistry, functional thermostats, and clean radiator cores are essential to prevent overheating and cavitation damage.
| Other Systems |
The turbocharging system increases intake air density and enhances low-end torque. Depending on calibration, the ISM 330 may use a wastegated or variable-geometry turbocharger (VGT). The intake system includes a dry-element air filter, with dual-stage filters available for dusty environments. The exhaust manifold is cast from thermally stable iron capable of withstanding high exhaust gas temperatures.
Electrical systems include 12- or 24-volt configurations with alternators typically rated between 80 and 120 amperes. The ECM controls engine protection systems such as derating, overspeed shutdown, oil pressure alerts, coolant loss detection, and turbo overspeed protection. Accessory mounts support PTO drives, hydraulic pump flanges, and auxiliary equipment.
| Dimensions and Weight |
Engine physical dimensions:
Length: 1350–1500 mm (53.1–59.1 inches)
Width: 800–950 mm (31.5–37.4 inches)
Height: 1150–1400 mm (45.3–55.1 inches)
Dry weight typically ranges from 900 to 1100 kg (1984–2425 lbs),
depending on turbocharger type, cooling configuration, and accessory
installation. The modular layout simplifies installation in medium- and
heavy-duty vehicle frames.
| Maintenance Data |
Oil and filter changes are recommended every 500 hours or 15,000–25,000 km (9,300–15,500 miles), depending on duty cycle. Fuel filter replacement is recommended every 500 hours, with water separators drained regularly. Air filter service intervals range from 250 to 500 hours based on environmental dust levels.
Coolant replacement is required every two years or at recommended intervals based on coolant type. Valve lash adjustment may be required on non-hydraulic configurations. Aftertreatment-equipped versions require periodic cleaning or regeneration of emissions components. ECM diagnostics support predictive maintenance and efficient troubleshooting.
| Tightening Torques |
Cylinder head bolts: 200–230 Nm (148–170 lb-ft)
Main bearing cap bolts: 160–200 Nm (118–148 lb-ft)
Connecting rod bolts: 80–100 Nm (59–74 lb-ft)
Flywheel bolts: 260–300 Nm (192–221 lb-ft)
Crankshaft pulley bolt: 280–320 Nm (207–236 lb-ft)
Injector hold-down: 25–30 Nm (18–22 lb-ft)
Intake heaters/glow plugs (if equipped): 10–15 Nm (7–11 lb-ft)
Oil drain plug: 40–50 Nm (30–37 lb-ft).
| Vehicle Applications |
The Cummins ISM 330 is widely used in regional haul trucks, vocational dump trucks, cement mixers, refuse trucks, heavy-duty buses, fire trucks, cranes, construction machinery, industrial pumps, compressors, and generator sets. Its balance of power, torque, durability, and electronic management makes it suitable for demanding on-highway and industrial applications.
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