Product Description
Cummins 5292738 — Genuine 180° Engine Coolant Thermostat for 5.9L 12-Valve
MPN: 5292738 | Also Known As: thermostat, engine coolant thermostat | Gasket (sold separately): 3923331
Restore proper warm-up and operating temperature on your first-gen 5.9L. This genuine Cummins 180° thermostat is the OE drop-in for 1989–1993 Ram 2500/3500 5.9L 12-valve (VE-pump). Built to OEM specs for consistent regulation and long service life.
Features & Benefits
- OE temperature control to protect pistons, bearings, and turbo from thermal stress.
- Direct-fit drop-in for first-gen 5.9L 12-valve (no modification required).
- Jiggle-pin vent helps purge air for stable coolant temps.
- Durable thermostat element for repeatable open/close cycles.
- Backed by Cummins quality and fitment.
Verified Fitment (Automotive)
| Year Range | Engine | Chassis |
|---|---|---|
| 1989–1993 | 5.9L 12V (VE pump) | Ram 2500/3500 |
Industrial/Off-Highway: Used primarily on B-Series era 5.9L engines (BS3). For non-automotive 4BT/6BT usage, verify by ESN prior to ordering.
Specifications
- Type: Engine coolant thermostat
- Nominal Temperature: 180 °F (opens ~181.4 °F; fully open ~203 °F)
- Venting: Jiggle-pin
- Housing Bore Diameter (req.): ~54.25 mm
- OE Part Number: 5292738
- Gasket (sold separately): 3923331
- Quantity Required: 1 per engine
Often Paired With
- Thermostat housing gasket: Cummins 3923331 (recommended with each thermostat change)
- Fresh coolant: refill/bleed according to service manual
- Upper/lower radiator hoses & clamps: inspect/replace if aged
What’s In The Box
- (1) Genuine Cummins 180° Thermostat (5292738)
- Gasket sold separately (see “Often Paired With”).
Installation Tips
- Drain coolant below thermostat level; remove housing and clean mating surfaces.
- Install thermostat with jiggle-pin oriented upward; use a new 3923331 gasket.
- Torque housing fasteners to spec; refill with correct coolant mix and bleed air.
- Verify opening behavior by monitoring coolant temp after warm-up.
FAQ
WILL THIS FIT MY 1989–1993 5.9L CUMMINS?
Yes—5292738 is the OE 180° thermostat for first-gen 5.9L 12-valve Ram 2500/3500.
WHAT GASKET DO I NEED?
Use Cummins 3923331 thermostat housing gasket each time you replace the thermostat.
WHAT ARE THE OPENING SPECS?
Nominal 180 °F; begins opening around ~181.4 °F and is fully open near ~203 °F (jiggle-pin vented).
DOES THIS FIT 1994+ OR 6.7L TRUCKS?
No—later 5.9L/6.7L applications use different thermostats. Check by VIN/ESN for the correct part.
IS THIS A GENUINE CUMMINS PART?
Yes—OE Cummins 5292738.
