Product Description
Cummins 3918461 — Genuine Intake Air Temperature (IAT) Sensor
MPN: 3918461 | Also Known As: intake air temp sensor, charge air temp sensor, IAT
Restore accurate intake temperature readings on your 12-valve. The genuine Cummins 3918461 IAT sensor is the OE unit for 1991.5–1997 Dodge/Ram 5.9L 12-valve applications. It installs in the intake horn/plenum plate and feeds temperature data to the engine controls for proper cold-start, fueling and grid-heater strategy.
Features & Benefits
- OE calibration for correct intake air temp readings and stable drivability.
- Direct-fit to the factory intake horn/plenum—no adapters or rewiring.
- Improves cold-start behavior and reduces smoke when the old sensor drifts.
- Durable sensing element designed for heat, vibration, and oil mist exposure.
- Genuine Cummins part for traceability and long service life.
Verified Fitment (Automotive)
| Year Range | Engine | Chassis |
|---|---|---|
| 1991.5–1993 | 5.9L 12V (VE, intercooled) | Dodge D/W 250 & 350 |
| 1994–1997 | 5.9L 12V (P7100) | Ram 2500 / Ram 3500 |
Industrial/Off-Highway: Cummins catalogs 3918461 as a Temperature Sensor used primarily on Non-Certified 5.9L B-Series engines—verify by ESN for equipment engines.
Compatibility Notes:
- 1998 12-valve typically uses IAT 3932272 (different calibration/connector).
- 1998.5–2002 24-valve (VP44) uses IAT 3408345.
- Always match by VIN/ESN or compare the old sensor before ordering to avoid returns.
Specifications
- Type: Intake Air Temperature (IAT) sensor (thermistor)
- OE Part Number: 3918461
- Location: Intake horn / plenum plate
- Quantity Required: 1 per engine
Often Paired With
- IAT repair pigtail/connector (replace if brittle or oil-soaked)
- Intake horn gasket (if removed during service)
- Grid heater hardware (inspect while you’re in the area)
What’s In The Box
- (1) Genuine Cummins Intake Air Temperature Sensor (3918461)
Installation Tips
- Key-off and disconnect negative battery cable.
- Unplug the connector, remove the old sensor, and clean the port.
- Install the new sensor; tighten to spec. Reconnect and verify readings on a scan tool if available.
- If issues persist, inspect wiring, grounds, and check for boost leaks.
FAQ
WILL THIS FIT MY 1991.5–1997 5.9L 12-VALVE?
Yes—3918461 is the OE IAT for intercooled ’91.5–’93 trucks and ’94–’97 Ram 2500/3500 12-valve applications.
WHAT ABOUT 1998 TRUCKS?
Most 1998 12-valve builds use 3932272 instead. Compare your connector or verify by VIN/ESN.
WHAT DOES THIS SENSOR AFFECT?
It reports intake temperature to the control system, influencing cold-start, fueling, timing and grid-heater strategy.
WHERE IS IT LOCATED?
Threaded into the intake horn/plenum plate on the passenger side of the engine bay.
IS THIS A GENUINE CUMMINS PART?
Yes—OE Cummins 3918461.
