Product Description
Cummins 3926381 OEM intake manifold grid heater & plenum is the genuine one-piece intake manifold cover used on 5.9L 12-valve Dodge Ram trucks. This factory plate integrates the intake air heater grid into the lower intake plenum, restoring cold-start performance, reducing white smoke, and keeping your 12V Cummins starting reliably in harsh winter climates.
Unlike used or questionable aftermarket plates, this genuine Cummins 3926381 part is built to OE standards for flatness, electrical reliability, and long-term durability. Pair it with fresh Cummins 3969988 intake heater grid gaskets and correct intake horn hardware so your 5.9L 12V seals boost and performs like it did off the showroom floor.
Key Features
- Genuine Cummins 3926381 one-piece intake manifold cover with integrated grid heater.
- Restores OE cold-start performance and reduces white smoke on 5.9L 12V trucks.
- Direct-fit replacement for worn, corroded, or modified factory plates.
- Compatible with OEM-style intake horn and two 3969988 grid heater gaskets (sold separately).
- Ideal foundation for stock, towing, and mild performance builds that retain the grid heater.
Fitment
This Cummins 3926381 intake manifold grid heater & plenum fits:
- 1989–1998 Dodge Ram 2500 / 3500 with 5.9L Cummins 12-valve (6BT).
- Trucks equipped with the factory one-piece grid heater/plenum intake manifold cover.
Fitment notes: Most commonly found on 1994–1998 12V trucks; some earlier 1989–1993 applications may vary by ESN and service history. Always confirm by engine serial number or visual comparison before ordering to avoid returns.
Recommended Cummins Companion Parts (Cross-Reference)
- Cummins 3969988 OEM Intake Heater Grid Gasket – 5.9L (1989–2007) – Seals between intake horn and grid heater plate; typically two required.
- Cummins 3929108 OEM Intake Air Heater Grid – 5.9L 12-Valve (1989–1998) – Replacement heater grid element that mounts to this 3926381 plate.
- Cummins 3919864 Short Intake Horn Bolt – 5.9L 12V – OE short intake horn bolt for 1994–1998 12V trucks.
- Cummins 3916127 Engine Block Heater Element – 5.9L (1989–1998) – OE coolant heater to complement the grid heater for cold climates.
Installation Notes
- Clean mating surfaces thoroughly and remove all old gasket material before installation.
- Always install new 3969988 gaskets to prevent boost leaks.
- Torque intake horn bolts to factory spec using a criss-cross pattern.
- Verify grid heater wiring, relay function, and battery health after installation for proper cold-start performance.
California Proposition 65
WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
FAQ
What trucks does Cummins 3926381 fit?
Cummins 3926381 is designed for Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks equipped with the 5.9L Cummins 12-valve (6BT) engine, generally covering model years 1989–1998 that use the one-piece grid heater/plenum plate. Always verify by VIN/ESN or comparing the existing plate before ordering.
Is this a genuine Cummins part or aftermarket?
This is a genuine Cummins OEM 3926381 intake manifold cover, sourced through CPP Diesel and not an aftermarket reproduction. Genuine Cummins parts deliver the correct heater performance, sealing surface, and long-term durability your 12V truck was designed around.
Do I need new gaskets when installing this plate?
Yes. Any time the intake horn and grid heater plate are removed, Cummins recommends replacing the connection gaskets. We strongly suggest adding two Cummins 3969988 intake heater grid gaskets to your order to prevent boost leaks and comebacks.
Can I delete the grid heater and still use this plenum?
Some race-only builds remove the grid heater element or switch to a non-heated plate. However, for street-driven trucks—especially in cold climates—CPP Diesel recommends retaining the grid heater or using a properly engineered upgrade solution. If you are building a competition-only setup, contact CPP Diesel for race-use options before modifying this OEM part.
Which other Cummins parts should I replace at the same time?
When replacing the 3926381 plate, it is smart to inspect and replace related hardware and cold-start components. Common add-ons include the 3969988 intake heater grid gaskets, 3929108 intake air heater grid if your original grid is failing, 3919864 intake horn bolt hardware, and a 3916127 block heater element for maximum cold-start reliability.
Specifications for cummins 3926381
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Cummins Genuine (OEM) |
| Part Number | 3926381 |
| Product Type | Intake manifold cover with integrated intake air heater grid (plenum plate) |
| Engine Compatibility | 5.9L Cummins 12-valve (6BT) diesel |
| Vehicle Applications | Dodge Ram 2500 / 3500 (1989–1998) equipped with 5.9L 12V Cummins |
| Material | Cast aluminum with integrated steel heater grid assembly |
| GTIN | Not specified by manufacturer (check Cummins packaging for barcode if present) |
| UPC | Not specified / not published in available distributor data |
| Cross Reference | Related Cummins intake manifold cover 3920551 (functionally similar); use with intake heater grid gasket 3969988 and heater grid 3929108 where applicable. |
| E-Codes | Not applicable (heavy-duty diesel intake component) |
| Package Dimensions | Approx. 21.3 in (L) x 8.0 in (W) x 7.5 in (H) |
| Shipping Weight | Approx. 5.9 lb (2.7 kg) |
| Shipping Method | Ships via standard ground service; expedited options available at checkout |
| Prop 65 Warning | WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
