Product Description
Cummins 3942565 — Genuine Valve Tappet (Lifter) for B-Series
MPN: 3942565 | Also Known As: valve lifter, cam follower, tappet | Notes: Stock flat tappet for 5.9L 24-valve VP44 applications; 1.3" footprint.
The genuine Cummins 3942565 valve tappet restores quiet, consistent valve action on 1998.5–2002 Ram 2500/3500 5.9L 24-valve (VP44). Built to OE metallurgy and surface finish to protect the camshaft and deliver long service life.
Features & Benefits
- OE flat-tappet geometry with correct crown and finish for proper cam break-in and longevity.
- Direct fit for 24-valve VP44 5.9L—no machining or shimming required.
- Precision face hardness to resist spalling and scuffing under high spring loads.
- Quiet operation and stable lash when paired with good pushrods and correct oil.
- Genuine Cummins part for reliability and traceability.
Verified Fitment (Automotive)
| Year Range | Engine | Chassis |
|---|---|---|
| 1998.5–2002 | 5.9L 24-Valve ISB (VP44) | Ram 2500/3500 |
Industrial/Off-Highway: Cummins catalogs 3942565 for B-Series/ISB & QSB 5.9 (industrial Tier lines). Verify by ESN for equipment engines, as lifter specs can vary by build code.
Compatibility Notes:
- Not the 12-valve lifter: 1989–1998 12V uses 3931623 (different diameter).
- Not the common-rail lifter: 2003–2018 applications commonly use 3947759.
- Quantity: Sold individually—order 12 per engine (one per valve).
Specifications
- Type: Flat valve tappet (lifter)
- OE Part Number: 3942565
- Footprint: ~1.3" (stock 24-valve style)
- Quantity Required: 12 per engine (sold each)
Often Paired With
- Tappet cover gasket: Cummins 3284623 (’89–’02)
- Pushrods: upgrade when replacing cam/tappets to maintain correct straightness
- Break-in oil / zinc additive: critical for new cam & lifter break-in on flat-tappet engines
What’s In The Box
- (1) Genuine Cummins Valve Tappet (3942565)
Installation Tips
- Always replace lifters as a set with a new or good camshaft; do not reuse old tappets on a new cam.
- Pre-lube cam lobes and tappet faces; follow proper break-in (rpm/time) with high-zinc oil.
- Verify pushrod straightness and set valve lash to spec after heat cycle.
FAQ
WILL THIS FIT MY 1998.5–2002 24-VALVE 5.9L CUMMINS?
Yes—3942565 is the stock-style flat tappet for 24-valve VP44 engines used in 1998.5–2002 Ram 2500/3500.
HOW MANY DO I NEED?
Order 12 lifters for one 5.9L engine (one per valve).
IS THIS THE SAME AS THE 12-VALVE OR COMMON-RAIL LIFTER?
No—12V uses 3931623; common-rail years often use 3947759. Choose by engine/year or ESN.
WHAT GASKET SHOULD I REPLACE DURING THIS SERVICE?
The tappet cover gasket 3284623 (1989–2002) is commonly replaced to prevent oil leaks.
IS THIS A GENUINE CUMMINS PART?
Yes—OE Cummins 3942565.
