Product Description
CUMMINS 3946168 OEM VALVE COVER BOLT (CAPTIVE ISOLATOR CAP SCREW)
The genuine CUMMINS 3946168 OEM valve cover bolt is the correct factory fastener used on 1998.5–2002 5.9L ISB 24-valve Cummins engines. This captive isolator cap screw is engineered to maintain proper clamp load on the valve cover, preventing oil seepage while reducing vibration transfer and fastener loosening over time. If your original bolts are stripped, corroded, or missing, replacing them with authentic Cummins hardware ensures a perfect OE seal and long-term durability.
These bolts are commonly replaced when servicing leaking valve covers, performing injector work, or restoring a high-mileage ISB engine. Aftermarket copies often lack the correct isolator design, which can cause improper clamp load and recurring oil leaks—making genuine Cummins the superior choice.
Key Features
- Genuine Cummins OEM valve cover captive isolator bolt.
- Prevents valve cover leaks by maintaining correct clamp load.
- Vibration-damping isolator reduces loosening on high-mileage engines.
- Correct fit for 1998.5–2002 Ram 5.9L 24-valve ISB engines.
- Durable corrosion-resistant OEM construction.
Fitment Details
Commonly used on the following applications:
- Engine: 5.9L Cummins ISB 24-Valve
- Years: 1998.5–2002
- Trucks: Dodge Ram 2500 / 3500
- Fuel System: VP44
Note: Quantity varies by engine—inspect all bolts before ordering replacements.
Cross-Reference & Companion Cummins Parts
- CUMMINS 3949988 VALVE COVER GASKET – 5.9L 24-VALVE
- CUMMINS 3977393 VALVE COVER – 5.9L 24-VALVE
- VIEW ALL GENUINE CUMMINS PARTS
Specifications for cummins 3946168
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand | Cummins (Genuine OEM) |
| Cummins Part Number | 3946168 |
| Description | Valve Cover Captive Isolator Cap Screw |
| Engine Compatibility | 5.9L Cummins ISB 24-Valve (1998.5–2002) |
| Vehicle Fitment | 1998.5–2002 Dodge Ram 2500 / 3500 with 5.9L 24-valve Cummins |
| UPC / Barcode | 190861113312 |
| GTIN | 190861113312 |
| Shipping Weight | Approx. 0.05 lb |
| Typical Shipping Method | Standard ground; ships quickly from CPP Diesel |
| Cross Reference | Used with Cummins valve cover gasket 3949988 and related hardware |
| E-Codes | Standard ISB emissions; verify per ESN |
| Prop 65 Warning | WARNING: Cancer & reproductive harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
| Country of Origin | As labeled by Cummins (varies by lot) |
Frequently Asked Questions
HOW MANY OF THESE BOLTS DOES MY VALVE COVER USE?
The 5.9L 24-valve ISB uses multiple bolts per cover section. Always inspect your existing hardware and order the correct quantity for replacement.
CAN I REUSE MY ORIGINAL VALVE COVER BOLTS?
You can if the isolators and threads are in good condition. However, worn or damaged bolts are a common cause of valve cover leaks—OEM replacements are recommended.
IS THIS A GENUINE CUMMINS BOLT OR AFTERMARKET?
This is a genuine Cummins OEM captive isolator bolt. CPP Diesel does not repackage or relabel aftermarket copies for critical sealing hardware.
DOES THIS BOLT FIT ALL 24-VALVE ENGINES?
It fits the 1998.5–2002 VP44 24-valve ISB. Later 2003–2007 common-rail 24-valve engines use different hardware.
SHOULD I REPLACE THE VALVE COVER GASKET AT THE SAME TIME?
Yes—Cummins recommends replacing the gasket when servicing valve cover hardware. Use genuine CUMMINS 3949988 for best results.
