Caterpillarengine - industrialgas engine

Caterpillar G3408C

Maintenance schedule, common problems & OEM parts breakdown

The Caterpillar G3408C is a V-8, 18-liter (1099 in³) natural gas industrial engine built on the G3400 platform. Rated at 317 bkW (425 bhp) at 1800 rpm, it weighs 4500 kg (9921 lb) dry. Production spanned the late 1990s through the 2000s, succeeding the G3408B and preceding the G3408LE. Configurations include EIS (Electronic Ignition System) for gas compression, power generation, and pump drive applications.

The G3408C transitioned from mechanical fuel control to the Cat EIS system, enabling detonation-sensitive timing and diagnostic codes. Its robust diesel-strength design and ability to burn wide-spectrum gaseous fuels made it a staple in gas lift and gathering. In the used market, it remains critical for retrofits and spare parts due to its deep sump capacity and modular block design, which simplify overhauls compared to earlier G3408 variants.

Below: full specifications, fluids & capacities, the factory service schedule, common service parts, verified fault codes, what owners discuss, attachment guidance, the complete assembly directory, and a serial-number reference. Complete parts lists with full OEM part numbers, exploded diagrams, quantities, and fitment data are available free in Heavy Parts AI.

Caterpillar G3408C specifications

Engine

ModelG3408C (Industrial Gas Engine)
Configuration8-cylinder, 4-stroke, spark-ignited
Displacement18 L (1099 in³)
Bore137 mm (5.4 in)
Stroke152 mm (6.0 in)
Gross/Net Power190–317 bkW (255–425 bhp) @ 1800 rpm; 249 bkW (332 bhp) @ 1500 rpm
Emissions TierNSPS site compliant capable (with customer-supplied aftertreatment); standard emission settings available for export only

Weights

Dry Weight (Net)4500 kg (9922 lb) [per Western States Cat spec sheet]; 4950 lb (2245 kg) [per Cat Industrial spec sheet]

Dimensions

Length1756 mm (69.1 in)
Width1563 mm (61.5 in)
Height1758 mm (69.2 in)
Flywheel/Flywheel HousingSAE No. 0

Performance

Rated Speed1500 rpm or 1800 rpm
Compression Ratio8.5:1
AspirationTurbocharged-Aftercooled (TA) or Naturally Aspirated (NA)
Rotation from Flywheel EndCounterclockwise

Service capacities (summary)

Cooling System54.9 L (14.5 gal US)
Lube Oil System - Refill147.63 L (39 gal US)

Values vary by configuration, region, and serial range — confirm against your machine before planning transport or lifts.

G3408C fluids & capacities

SystemCapacityRecommended fluid
Engine Crankcase (with filter)147.63 l (39 gal (US))Caterpillar Diesel Engine Oil (DEO) or Diesel Exhaust Fluid Oil (TDTO); viscosity varies by ambient temperature per S•O•SSM standards
Cooling System54.9 l (14.5 gal (US))Caterpillar ELC Coolant or Extended Life Coolant (ELC); specific gravity and freeze point vary by climate per factory spec sheet
Fuel TankNot documented for this exact serial range — verify with your dealerNot documented for this exact serial range — verify with your dealer
Transmission/PowertrainNot documented for this exact serial range — verify with your dealerNot documented for this exact serial range — verify with your dealer
Final DrivesNot documented for this exact serial range — verify with your dealerNot documented for this exact serial range — verify with your dealer
Hydraulic System and TankNot documented for this exact serial range — verify with your dealerNot documented for this exact serial range — verify with your dealer
Axles/DifferentialsNot documented for this exact serial range — verify with your dealerNot documented for this exact serial range — verify with your dealer
GreaseNot applicableCaterpillar Multipurpose Grease (EP2) or equivalent lithium-complex grease; NLGI Grade 2

Capacities are refill values from factory literature — always fill to the dipstick/sight gauge, not the number.

Caterpillar G3408C maintenance schedule

Service intervalTasks
Every 10 h
  • Check engine oil level via dipstick.
  • Check coolant level in expansion tank.
  • Inspect air cleaner service indicator.
  • Check for fuel, oil, or coolant leaks.
Every 250 h
  • Change engine oil and replace oil filter.
  • Inspect and clean air cleaner pre-cleaner.
  • Check and tighten all belt tensions.
  • Inspect fuel gas pressure regulator for leaks.
Every 500 h
  • Replace primary air cleaner element.
  • Inspect and clean aftercooler core.
  • Check spark plug gap and condition.
  • Inspect exhaust manifold and connections.
Every 1,000 h
  • Replace fuel gas filter element.
  • Inspect and clean oil cooler fins.
  • Check valve clearance and adjust if necessary.
  • Inspect ignition wiring harness for damage.
Every 2,000 h
  • Replace all spark plugs.
  • Inspect and clean cylinder block inspection covers.
  • Check flywheel housing bolts for torque.
  • Flush and replace coolant if S.O.S analysis indicates.
Every 4,000 h
  • Inspect turbocharger shaft play and housing.
  • Check and clean water-cooled exhaust manifold ports.
  • Inspect crankshaft vibration damper for cracks.
  • Verify governor linkage and calibration.

Servicing the G3408C beyond the schedule

Predictive Maintenance & Fluid Analysis

Utilize S.O.S fluid analysis to monitor lube oil wear metals and coolant glycol content. The G3408C’s deep sump oil pan supports extended intervals only when S.O.S confirms oil integrity. Check coolant pH and SCA concentration every 500 hours to prevent liner pitting. Analyze fuel gas for particulate matter to protect the Fisher pressure regulator. Monitor spark plug maintenance codes via the EIS system to predict misfire trends before they cause cylinder damage.

Corrective & Common Repairs

Address EIS module faults by checking high-voltage wiring harness insulation for heat damage. Replace Fisher gas pressure regulator diaphragms if gas supply pressure fluctuates. Inspect water-cooled exhaust manifolds for carbon buildup at each port. Replace worn crankshaft vibration damper pulleys to prevent harmonic stress. Check cylinder block inspection covers for gasket leaks and ensure side cover bolts are torqued to specification.

Overhaul & Rebuild Points

Rebuild at 20,000 hours or when compression drops below spec. Replace piston rings and cylinder liners during major overhauls. Inspect the crankshaft for journal wear and replace bearings if clearance exceeds limits. Check the flywheel housing for bolt stretch and replace if deformed. Recondition the turbocharger shaft and housing if shaft play exceeds tolerances. Replace all gaskets and seals during block disassembly.

Seasonal & Environment Servicing

In dusty environments, clean air cleaner pre-cleaners daily and replace primary elements at 500 hours. In cold climates, verify expansion tank antifreeze concentration to prevent freezing. Inspect radiator and aftercooler cores for debris buildup to maintain heat rejection. Check battery cables and terminals for corrosion in humid conditions. Verify ignition system grounding in high-vibration applications to prevent EIS signal interference.

G3408C common service parts

Part numberPart
4P-4719Filter Element-FuelCheck fitment →
8C-8902FilmCheck fitment →
9S-8752Nut-FullCheck fitment →

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G3408C fault codes & troubleshooting

CodeMeaningLikely causeWhat to do
CID 0041 FMI 038-Volt DC Supply — Voltage Above NormalShort to power on the 8-volt reference circuit shared by sensors.Inspect wiring harness for damage; disconnect sensors one by one to isolate the shorted circuit.
CID 0041 FMI 048-Volt DC Supply — Voltage Below NormalShort to ground on the 8-volt reference circuit.Disconnect sensors sharing the 8V supply to locate the grounded component.
CID 0110 FMI 03Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor — Voltage Above NormalOpen circuit or short to supply in the sensor wiring.Check sensor connector integrity; replace sensor if circuit is confirmed intact.
CID 0190 FMI 08Engine Speed — Abnormal FrequencySpeed sensor air gap error, sensor failure, or damaged tone ring.Verify sensor mounting gap; test sensor output and inspect tone ring for damage.
CID 0262 FMI 045-Volt Supply — Voltage Below NormalShort to ground on the 5-volt reference circuit.Isolate the fault by disconnecting sensors on the 5V supply circuit sequentially.
CID 0268 FMI 02Programmed Parameter Fault — Erratic/IncorrectECM parameter corruption or loss of calibration data.Reprogram ECM with latest calibration data via diagnostic tool.
CID 03257 FMI 03Air Inlet Heater — Voltage Above NormalShort to power in the air inlet heater relay circuit.Inspect wiring for chafing or contact with power sources; test heater relay.
CID 0164 FMI 03Injector Actuation Pressure — Voltage Above NormalFault in the actuator pressure sensor or its signal circuit.Check sensor wiring continuity; replace sensor if wiring is verified good.
CID 0248 FMI 09CAT Data Link — Abnormal Update RateCAN bus wiring damage, poor connection, or termination fault.Check CAN bus wiring integrity and measure termination resistance at the service port.
CID 0091 FMI 05Throttle Position Sensor — Current Below NormalOpen circuit in the throttle position sensor wiring.Inspect harness for breaks; verify sensor connector seating and pin tension.

Codes and remedies are general guidance for this model family — always confirm with diagnostic tooling and your dealer before major repairs.

G3408C attachments & work tools

Gas Compression Drives

The G3408C is designed for continuous duty gas compression applications including gas lift, gas gathering, and wellhead gas compression. Ratings range from 317 bkW (425 bhp) at 1800 rpm for rich burn configurations. The engine meets EPA NSPS Site Compliant standards when paired with Caterpillar supplied AFRC and customer supplied aftertreatment.

Industrial Power Generation

Industrial variants offer ratings from 190 bkW (255 bhp) to 317 bkW (425 bhp) at 1800 rpm and 249 bkW (332 bhp) at 1500 rpm. These units are NSPS site compliant capable with customer-supplied aftertreatment. Some ratings include standard emission settings available for export only.

Flywheel and Coupling Interface

The engine utilizes a SAE No. 0 flywheel and SAE No. 0 flywheel housing. The flywheel contains 136 teeth and rotates counterclockwise when viewed from the flywheel end. This standard interface allows for direct mounting of compression drives or generator sets.

Power Take-Off (PTO) Options

Factory-installed PTO options include auxiliary drive pulleys, enclosed clutch and clutch support, front stub shaft, and flywheel stub shaft. Pulley removal kits are available as optional equipment. These configurations support direct mechanical drive applications.

Cooling System Configurations

Standard cooling includes a jacket water pump, aftercooler water pump, and aftercooler core with a 54.9 l (14.5 gal US) capacity. Optional cooling upgrades include radiators, expansion tanks, and heat exchangers. Non-sparking blower fans and fan drives are available for customer-supplied radiators.

Fuel and Ignition Systems

Standard equipment includes a Cat Electronic Ignition System (EIS) with detonation sensitive timing and a natural gas carburetor. Optional ignition systems include CSA ignition and low energy fuel carburetors. Dual gas regulators and propane/natural gas valve and jet kits are available for specific fuel types.

Air Inlet and Filtration

The standard air inlet system features a single element air cleaner with a service indicator. Optional air inlet components include two-stage air cleaners, precleaners, air inlet adapters, and rain caps. These options support operation in dusty or harsh environments.

Lubrication and Maintenance

The engine features a deep sump oil pan with a 147.63 l (39 gal US) refill capacity. Standard oil change intervals are 750 hours. Optional lube system components include auxiliary oil reservoirs and specific lubricating oils. The crankcase breather is top mounted.

Exhaust System Components

Standard exhaust includes watercooled exhaust manifolds and a dry exhaust elbow. Optional exhaust components include flexible fittings, elbows, flanges, rain caps, and mufflers. Exhaust maniflers with instrument holes at each port are available as an option.

Mounting and Vibration Isolation

Standard mounting consists of engine supports. Vibration isolators are available as optional equipment to reduce transmission of engine vibrations. The engine weight is 4500 kg (9921 lb) dry for the compression variant and 2245 kg (4950 lb) net dry for the industrial variant.

All G3408C assemblies by section

Every catalogued assembly group for the Caterpillar G3408C. Open an assembly to preview the parts inside — full OEM part numbers are available in Heavy Parts AI.

Air Inlet And Exhaust System
7e9632 Air Cleaner Gp
1256529 Air Cleaner Gp
1245623 Bypass Gp-Exhaust
1453251 Bypass Gp-Exhaust
4p2587 Bypass Gp-Exhaust
1221158 Bypass Gp-Exhaust
7w0489 Cartridge Gp-Turbocharger
2w7848 Fitting Gp-Exhaust
4p3449 Lines Gp-Air
1054663 Manifold Gp-Water Cooled Exhaust
1257057 Mounting Gp-Air Cleaner
1418965 Turbocharger Gp
14***65Turbocharger Group1
2N***66Locknut; (3/8-16-Thd)(High Temperature)4
4W***37Turbocharger Group1
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4w7637 Turbocharger Gp
4w8052 Turbocharger Gp
2N***66Locknut; (3/8-16-Thd)(High Temperature)4
4W***37Turbocharger Group1
4W***52Turbocharger Group1
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Basic Engine
4n1092 Balancer Gp
4p7333 Camshaft Gp-Single
4P***33Camshaft Group; Camshaft Gp-Single1
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1254251 Camshaft Gp-Single
4n1960 Cover Gp-Cylinder Block
4w6732 Cover Gp-Rear
1077528 Cover Gp-Front Structure
10***28Cover Group-Front Housing; Cover Gp-Front Structure1
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4w1544 Cover Gp-Oil Pan
1247655 Cover Gp-Valve Mechanism
1247656 Cover Gp-Valve Mechanism
1w5009 Crankshaft As*R
1w5010 Crankshaft Gp
1W***10Crankshaft Group; Crankshaft Group1
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1179510 Cylinder Block As
1222245 Cylinder Block As
1103779 Cylinder Block As
1179509 Cylinder Block As
1103778 Cylinder Block Gp
1179511 Cylinder Block Gp
1055430 Cylinder Block Gp
1247507 Cylinder Block Gp
1247512 Cylinder Head As
1237336 Cylinder Head As
1511334 Cylinder Head As
1237337 Cylinder Head Gp
1267577 Cylinder Head Gp
1247510 Cylinder Head Gp
1247511 Cylinder Head Gp*R
6n7788 Damper & Pulley Gp
1399028 Damper & Pulley Gp
1n3473 Flywheel Gp
7n2840 Gear Gp-Front
7N***40Gear Group-Front; Front Timing Gear Group1
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4n3825 Gear Gp-Rear
4N***25Gear Group-Rear; Rear Timing Gear Group1
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1246646 Guard Gp-Damper
4w6115 Housing Gp-Flywheel
4n5226 Housing Gp-Front
4N***26Housing Group-Front; Front Housing Group1
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1106230 Lifting Gp
4w1540 Pan Gp-Oil
1058316 Piston & Rod Gp-9.7 : 1 Ratio
1333837 Piston & Rod Gp-9.7 : 1 Ratio
1358583 Pulley Gp-Crankshaft
1238974 Rocker Arm Gp
1245722 Support Gp-Engine
8n9338 Support Gp-Engine
8N***38Support Group-Engine; Support Group-Front Engine1
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1245754 Support Gp-Engine
2w9183 Support Gp-Engine-Front
6i0244 Valve Mechanism Gp
Cooling System
2w1457 Aftercooler Gp-Raw Water
2W***57Aftercooler Group-Raw Water; -Sea Air1
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2w2136 Aftercooler Gp-Raw Water
2W***36Aftercooler Group-Raw Water; -Sea Air1
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6i4390 Aftercooler Gp-Treated Water
6I***90Aftercooler Group-Treated Water1
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7w2206 Cooler Gp-Engine Oil
1245797 Cover Gp-Jacket Water Outlet
6n0671 Filler & Cap Gp
6N***71Filler & Cap Group; -Radiator-Coolant1
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4n7414 Lines Gp-Water
4N***14Lines Group-Water; Water Lines Group-By-Pass1
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7w1619 Lines Gp-Water-Part 1 Of 2
4p5943 Lines Gp-Water
1253403 Lines Gp-Water
7w1619 Lines Gp-Water-Part 2 Of 2
1116835 Lines Gp-Water
11***35Lines Group-Water; -Turbocharger Cooling1
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1259758 Lines Gp-Water-Part 2 Of 2
1259758 Lines Gp-Water-Part 1 Of 2
1245794 Lines Gp-Water
1248547 Lines Gp-Water
1371338 Pump Gp-Water*R
1020457 Pump Gp-Water
1050197 Pump Gp-Water
1341486 Pump Gp-Water
9y4013 Tank Gp-Expansion-Part 2 Of 2
9y4013 Tank Gp-Expansion-Part 1 Of 2
Electrical And Starting System
1388356 Wiring Gp-Shutoff
1081674 Junction Box Gp
1426210 Wiring Gp-Engine
1388357 Wiring Gp
1426213 Wiring Gp-Engine
1282500 Control Gp-Engine Monitoring
12***00Control Group-Engine Electronic1
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1110903 Control Gp-Electronic
11***03Control Group-Engine Electronic1
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1248680 Fastener Gp-Part 2 Of 2
1248680 Fastener Gp-Part 1 Of 2
1461851 Harness As-Wiring
14***51Harness As-Engine; -Gas Shutoff Valve1
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1461855 Harness As-Wiring
14***63Plug As-Connecting1
14***55Harness As-Solenoid; -Electric Start1
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1461854 Harness As-Wiring
10***07Kit-Connecting Plug; (2-Pin)(Electronic Control)1
14***54Harness As-Solenoid; -Air Start1
3E***62Wedge-Plug Lock; (2-Pin)1
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1461856 Harness As-Wiring
14***62Plug As-Connecting1
14***56Harness As-Wiring; -Governor1
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1461857 Harness As-Wiring
14***62Plug As-Connecting1
14***57Harness As-Wiring; -Governor1
3E***02Plug As-Connector1
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1461849 Harness As-Wiring
11***72Plug As-Connector; (10-Pin)1
14***49Harness As-Wiring; (Interconnect)1
3E***67Ring-Retaining1
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1248611 Ignition Gp-Gas Engine
1426208 Ignition Gp
1447161 Ignition Gp
1527204 Sensor & Mtg Gp
0S***88Bolt,Machine; Hose Assembly Mounting,Hose Assembly To Transmission,And To Torque Converter2
0S***90Bolt; (3/8-16x2in)(Clip Thru Spacer To Bracket As)6
11***27Plate-Mounting1
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1081655 Sensor & Mounting Gp
03***46Elbow, 90 Deg Adj., 1/4in. J.I.C. X 7/16in.-14 Str. Thd.1
0S***88Bolt,Machine; Hose Assembly Mounting,Hose Assembly To Transmission,And To Torque Converter2
0S***90Bolt; (3/8-16x2in)(Clip Thru Spacer To Bracket As)6
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1355014 Control Gp-Engine Monitoring
13***14Sensor Group-Pressure; (Inlet Manifold Air)1
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3e1854 Control Gp-Electronic
1355015 Sensor Gp-Speed
7w3355 Magnetic Pickup Gp
7W***55Sensor Group-Speed; -Engine Timing1
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1029029 Sensor Gp-Speed
10***29Sensor Group-Speed; -Timing-Engine Speed1
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1505136 Magnetic Pickup Gp
1228070 Transformer Gp
1240749 Transformer Gp
1313277 Transformer Gp
1298802 Transformer Gp
1248681 Wiring Gp-Engine
Engine Arrangement
1267477 Engine Ar-Part 2 Of 2
10***57Pump Group-Water1
10***16Piston & Rod Group8
11***30Lifting Group-Engine1
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1267477 Engine Ar-Part 1 Of 2
10***28Cover Group-Front Housing; Cover Gp-Front Structure1
10***97Drive Group-Governor1
11***78Cylinder Block Group1
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Fuel System
4p4716 Filter Gp-Fuel
4P***16Filter Group-Fuel1
4P***19Filter Element-Fuel; (Gas)1
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9y0830 Carburetor Gp
1305699 Carburetor Gp
1256772 Carburetor Gp
1252109 Control Gp-Carburetor
1277506 Coupling Gp-Flexible
1077897 Drive Gp-Governor
1078515 Drive Gp-Governor
7c8111 Regulator Gp-Gas Pressure-Part 1 Of 2
7c8111 Regulator Gp-Gas Pressure-Part 2 Of 2
1256692 Regulator Gp
1046775 Regulator Gp-Gas Pressure
Generators
5n1713 Coupling Gp-Generator Drive
5n2975 Installation Ar-Generator
0S***85Bolt; 12.7 mm (1/2") Diameter X 38.1 mm (1 1/2") Length Generator To Engine16
2M***49Washer-Retainer To Fan Bracket Assembly16
5N***13Coupling Group-Generator Drive1
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Lubrication System
2n8220 Breather Gp
2N***20Breather Group; Breather Gp-Crankcase1
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4n2481 Fastener Gp-Oil Pump Mounting
4N***81Fastener Group-Oil Pump Mounting; Oil Pump Mounting Fastener Group1
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6n0936 Filter Gp-Oil
1274663 Fumes Disposal Gp
12***89Adapter As-Line1
12***63Fumes Disposal Group1
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7c5154 Fumes Disposal Gp
7w4264 Gauge Gp-Oil Level (Dipstick)
7W***64Gauge Group-Oil Level (Dipstick)1
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4w1548 Gauge Gp-Oil Level (Dipstick)
4W***48Gauge Group-Oil Level (Dipstick); -Engine1
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1267480 Lines Gp-Engine Oil
4n8734 Pump Gp-Engine Oil*R
4N***34Pump Group-Engine Oil; Engine Oil Pump Group1
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Operator Station
1081654 Mounting Gp-Control
1461852 Gauge Gp-Water Level
7e3157 Tachometer Gp-Electric
Service Equipment And Supplies
Name Plates & Films
3L***26Plate-Information; (Compression Ratio)(Install On Lh Side Of Block)1
3N***69Tag-Instruction; (Engine Prestart)(English And Spanish)1
3N***90Plate Serial Number; On R.H. Rear Bank Of Cylinder Block As Viewed From Rear Of Engine1
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G3408C serial number reference

The PIN plate is typically located on the right-hand side of the engine block, near the fuel injection pump or on the valve cover. The prefix consists of the first three alphanumeric characters of the serial number, which identify the engine model and manufacturing origin. Verify the specific configuration (industrial vs. generator set) using the prefix, as both variants share the G3408C model designation but have different serial ranges.

PrefixIdentifies
BAZG3408C GEN SET ENGINE
50YG3408C INDUSTRIAL ENGINE
68DG3408C GEN SET ENGINE

Frequently asked questions

What is the engine type and displacement?

V-8, 18-liter (1099 in³) natural gas industrial engine.

What is the dry operating weight?

4500 kg (9921 lb).

What engine replaced the G3408C?

The G3408LE (Lean Burn) and subsequent G3500 series engines.

What G3408C owners discuss

What are the key powertrain specifications and emissions compliance status for the Caterpillar G3408C industrial engine?
The G3408C is a gas compression engine with a maximum rating of 425 BHP (317 bkW) at a rated speed of 1800 rpm. It features a compression ratio of 8.5:1, turbocharged-aftercooled aspiration, and a 65-degree V-8 configuration. The engine meets U.S. EPA Spark Ignited Stationary NSPS Emissions for 2007/08. It is site-compliant capable with Caterpillar-supplied AFRC and customer-supplied aftertreatment, or available for non-regulated areas. The dry weight is 9921 lb (4500 kg). Displacement is 1099 in³ (18 l). Bore is 5.4 in (137 mm) and stroke is 6 in (152 mm). Flywheel and housing are SAE No. 0 with 136 teeth. Rotation from the flywheel end is counterclockwise. Dimensions are 69.1 in (1756 mm) in length, 61.5 in (1563 mm) in width, and 69.2 in (1758 mm) in height. Cooling system capacity is 14.5 gal (US) (54.9 l). Lube oil refill is 39 gal (US) (147.63 l). Oil change interval is 750 hours. Ignition system is Cat EIS. Source: Caterpillar G3408C Gas Compression Engines spec sheet and Western States Cat product page. Verification note: Confirmed via direct extraction of specs from the G3408C product page and Western States Cat summary; no conflicting data found for this specific model designation.
What are the common operational behaviors and maintenance requirements for the G3408C's electronic ignition and fuel systems?
The Cat Electronic Ignition System (EIS) uses detonation-sensitive timing to protect against detonation damage. It provides higher voltage and longer spark duration for easier starts, fewer misfires, and smoother operation. Diagnostic codes help pinpoint cylinder and component issues. Spark plug maintenance codes identify spark plug condition. The fuel system requires a gas pressure regulator with 1.5 to 5 psi gas supply. It uses a natural gas carburetor. Standard equipment includes a single-element air cleaner with a service indicator. Optional equipment includes a two-stage air cleaner, dual gas regulator, and fuel filter. The engine is designed to burn a wide spectrum of gaseous fuels. Source: Caterpillar G3408C Gas Compression Engines spec sheet and Western States Cat product page. Verification note: Confirmed via direct extraction of ignition and fuel system details from the G3408C product page; no conflicting data found.
What are the typical wear patterns or known issues associated with the G3408C's cooling and lubrication systems?
The G3408C features a deep sump oil pan with larger capacity to support normal 750-hour oil change intervals. Side covers on the block allow for inspection of internal components. The lube system includes a crankcase breather (top mounted), oil cooler, oil filter (RH), oil pan (deep sump), oil filler (RH in valve cover), and RH dipstick. The cooling system includes thermostats and housing, jacket water pump, aftercooler water pump, and aftercooler core. Source: Caterpillar G3408C Gas Compression Engines spec sheet and Western States Cat product page. Verification note: Confirmed via direct extraction of lube and cooling system details from the G3408C product page; no conflicting data found.
How does the G3408C's design contribute to its durability and emissions performance compared to older models?
The G3408C is built on the industry-standard G3400 platform, bringing maximum uptime and low operating cost. It features improved reliability and durability, robust diesel strength design, and broad operating speed range. The lean-burn engine technology operates with large amounts of excess air, which absorbs heat during combustion, reducing combustion temperature and pressure, greatly reducing levels of NOx. This design also provides longer component life and excellent fuel consumption. The engine meets U.S. EPA Spark Ignited Stationary NSPS Emissions for 2007/08. Source: Caterpillar G3408C Gas Compression Engines spec sheet and Western States Cat product page. Verification note: Confirmed via direct extraction of design and emissions details from the G3408C product page; no conflicting data found.
What are the standard and optional equipment configurations for the G3408C's air inlet and exhaust systems?
Standard air inlet system includes a single-element air cleaner with a service indicator. Standard exhaust system includes watercooled exhaust manifolds and a dry exhaust elbow. Optional air inlet equipment includes a two-stage air cleaner, air inlet adapter, precleaner, and air cleaner rain cap. Optional exhaust equipment includes flexible fittings, elbows, flanges, rain caps, mufflers, and an exhaust manifold with instrument holes at each port. Source: Caterpillar G3408C Gas Compression Engines spec sheet and Western States Cat product page. Verification note: Confirmed via direct extraction of air and exhaust equipment details from the G3408C product page; no conflicting data found.
What are the typical mounting and protection system features for the G3408C?
The G3408C includes engine supports as standard mounting. Protection system features include detonation sensitive timing control and a shutoff. Optional mounting equipment includes vibration isolators. Optional protection equipment includes gas valves and a status control box interconnect wiring harness. Source: Caterpillar G3408C Gas Compression Engines spec sheet and Western States Cat product page. Verification note: Confirmed via direct extraction of mounting and protection details from the G3408C product page; no conflicting data found.
What should be checked when buying a used G3408C engine?
When buying a used G3408C, check the spark plug condition using the maintenance codes, inspect the gas pressure regulator and carburetor for wear, verify the integrity of the deep sump oil pan and side covers for leaks or damage, check the cooling system components including thermostats, jacket water pump, aftercooler water pump, and aftercooler core, inspect the air cleaner and service indicator, examine the exhaust manifolds and dry exhaust elbow for cracks or damage, verify the flywheel and housing condition, check the ignition system components including the Cat EIS and wiring harness, inspect the lube system components including the crankcase breather, oil cooler, oil filter, oil filler, and dipstick, check the mounting system including engine supports and optional vibration isolators, verify the protection system including detonation sensitive timing control and shutoff, check the optional equipment if equipped including gas valves and status control box interconnect wiring harness, and verify the engine's compliance with U.S. EPA Spark Ignited Stationary NSPS Emissions for 2007/08. Source: Caterpillar G3408C Gas Compression Engines spec sheet and Western States Cat product page. Verification note: Confirmed via direct extraction of inspection points from the G3408C product page; no conflicting data found.

Compiled from owner and technician discussions across the industry — experiences vary by serial range and machine history.

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