Product Description
FLEECE FPE-CLNTBYPS-CUMMINS-VP-SS CUMMINS COOLANT BYPASS KIT VP 98.5-02 WITH STAINLESS STEEL BRAIDED LINE
The FLEECE FPE-CLNTBYPS-CUMMINS-VP-SS Coolant Bypass Kit is engineered specifically for 1998.5–2002 24V VP44 Cummins engines to eliminate the coolant pressure problems that commonly cause blown freeze plugs and overheating under load. Featuring a durable stainless steel braided line and precision-machined fittings, this kit reroutes coolant from the rear of the block—where pressure spikes are the highest—creating a balanced, more efficient cooling system.
High-rpm use, heavy towing, larger injectors, or additional timing advance can all increase coolant system pressure, which often leads to popping the rear freeze plug or pressurizing the cooling system. This bypass kit relieves that excess pressure, provides smoother coolant flow, and helps protect the engine from long-term damage.
FEATURES
- Reduces coolant pressure spikes in the rear of the engine
- Prevents rear freeze plug blowouts (common on VP44 engines)
- Stainless-steel braided line for durability and heat protection
- Billet aluminum fittings and high-quality seals
- Improves overall cooling system balance and reliability
- Perfect for towing, performance, and high-mileage VP44 engines
- Direct-fit kit with no modifications required
FITMENT
- Engine: 5.9L Cummins 24-Valve VP44
- Model Years: 1998.5–2002
- Trucks: Dodge Ram 2500 / 3500
- Use Case: Ideal for tuned trucks, towing, daily driving, and high-performance builds
CROSS-REFERENCE & RELATED FLEECE PRODUCTS
- Coolant bypass kit (Common Rail / VP44 black braided hose):
FLEECE FPE-CLNTBYPS-HS-CRVP-BLK 34.5 INCH COMMON RAIL/VP44 COOLANT BYPASS HOSE BLACK - High-flow 1/2" CP3 feed fitting:
FLEECE FPE-CP3-FEED 1/2 INCH CP3 FEED FITTING - 1994–2002 Cummins 24V high-flow feed line kit:
FLEECE FPE-HFFL-9402 1994-2002 CUMMINS HIGH FLOW FEED LINE KIT - 1998.5–2002 upgraded VP44 wiring harness (for fuel systems):
FLEECE FPE-VP-WIRE VP44 WIRING HARNESS
FAQ
Why do VP44 Cummins engines need a coolant bypass kit?
The rear of the Cummins block experiences high coolant pressure under load, which often leads to blown freeze plugs or coolant leaks. A bypass kit relieves this pressure and creates a balanced cooling system.
Does this kit prevent rear freeze plug blowouts?
Yes — this is one of the primary reasons to install the Fleece bypass kit. It vents pressure from the rear of the block, keeping the freeze plug intact during towing or performance use.
Is the stainless braided line better than rubber hose?
Absolutely. Stainless braided line resists heat, abrasion, swelling, and long-term deterioration, making it ideal for high-temperature diesel applications.
Do I need to remove the transmission to install this?
No. All components mount externally and are accessible from the engine bay or under the truck. Installation is straightforward with basic hand tools.
Will this fit Common Rail Cummins engines?
No — this part is designed for 1998.5–2002 VP44 engines only. For CR engines, see the 34.5” bypass hose listed above in Cross-References.
Specifications for FLEECE FPE-CLNTBYPS-CUMMINS-VP-SS
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand | Fleece Performance Engineering |
| Part Number | FPE-CLNTBYPS-CUMMINS-VP-SS |
| UPC | 670875700802 |
| GTIN | 670875700802 |
| Engine Compatibility | 1998.5–2002 5.9L Cummins 24V VP44 |
| Configuration | Coolant bypass kit w/ stainless braided line |
| Materials | Stainless braided line, billet aluminum fittings |
| Cross Reference | FPE-CLNTBYPS-HS-CRVP-BLK (CR/VP bypass hose), FPE-HFFL-9402 (feed line kit), FPE-VP-WIRE (VP44 harness), FPE-CP3-FEED (feed fitting) |
| E-Codes | Not specified |
| Country of Origin | USA (manufacturer supplied) |
| Shipping Weight | Approx. 3 lbs |
| Package Dimensions | Approx. 10" × 10" × 4" |
| Shipping Method | Standard ground |
| Prop 65 Warning | WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
