Regular maintenance, such as ensuring proper coolant levels and oil changes, can help prolong the life of the cylinder head and its components. Shop now for Quality Diesel Engine Cylinder Head replacement parts from a trusted retailer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Diesel Engine Cylinder Heads
What cylinder head brands does Highway & Heavy Parts carry?
Highway & Heavy Parts stocks cylinder heads and components for all major diesel engine manufacturers including Caterpillar, Cummins, Detroit Diesel, International/Navistar, Mack, Volvo, Paccar, Mercedes, Ford, and John Deere. We carry over 1,400 cylinder head products ranging from complete loaded cylinder head assemblies to individual components like valve springs, rocker arms, and valve guides. Whether you need a replacement head for a Cummins ISX, Detroit Series 60, or Caterpillar C15, our inventory includes both new and remanufactured options that meet or exceed OEM specifications.
What’s the difference between a loaded cylinder head and a bare cylinder head?
A loaded cylinder head comes fully assembled with all internal components already installed, including valves, valve springs, valve guides, rocker arms, and related hardware. This means it’s ready to install directly onto your engine with minimal preparation. A bare cylinder head is just the casting itself without any internal components, requiring you to transfer parts from your old head or purchase components separately. Loaded cylinder heads save significant time during installation and ensure all components are properly assembled, making them the How do I know if my diesel cylinder head needs to be replaced?
Common signs that indicate cylinder head replacement include persistent overheating, coolant leaking into the oil or vice versa, visible cracks in the head casting, warped mating surfaces, exhaust smoke colors indicating valve issues, loss of compression in one or more cylinders, and repeated head gasket failures. If your engine exhibits white smoke from the exhaust, mixing of coolant and oil, or significant power loss, a cylinder head inspection is recommended. Our ASE-certified diesel technicians can help diagnose cylinder head problems and recommend whether repair or replacement is the best solution for your specific engine model.
What are Inconel exhaust valves and why are they important?
Inconel exhaust valves are made from a specialized nickel-chromium superalloy that offers superior heat resistance and durability compared to standard steel valves. These high-performance valves are crucial for diesel engines operating under extreme temperatures and heavy loads, particularly in applications like highway trucking, construction equipment, and agricultural machinery. Inconel valves resist warping, burning, and premature failure in high-temperature environments, extending service life and reducing maintenance frequency. Many of our premium cylinder heads for engines like the Caterpillar C15 and C13 feature Inconel exhaust valves for maximum reliability.
Can I use aftermarket cylinder head components on my diesel engine?
Yes, high-quality aftermarket cylinder head components are designed to meet or exceed OEM specifications and provide reliable performance at a more affordable price point. Highway & Heavy Parts carefully selects aftermarket cylinder heads and components that undergo rigorous quality control testing to ensure proper fitment, material strength, and longevity. Our aftermarket parts come with warranty coverage and are suitable for a wide range of applications from on-highway trucks to off-road equipment. Many professional mechanics and fleet managers choose aftermarket components to reduce repair costs while maintaining quality standards.
What components are included in a typical cylinder head assembly?
A complete diesel cylinder head assembly includes the cylinder head casting, intake and exhaust valves, valve springs, valve guides, valve seats, valve retainers and locks, rocker arms or camshafts (depending on engine design), hydraulic lifters or tappets, and all necessary sealing surfaces. Additional components may include fuel injector sleeves, glow plug ports, and integrated coolant and oil passages. When purchasing a loaded cylinder head from Highway & Heavy Parts, you receive a fully assembled unit that has been professionally built and tested, ensuring all components work together for optimal engine performance and reliability.
How long does it take to receive a diesel cylinder head after ordering?
Highway & Heavy Parts provides fast nationwide shipping on cylinder heads and components through UPS and FedEx. Orders placed by 2pm EST typically ship the same business day, with delivery times varying based on your location and selected shipping method. Given the critical nature of cylinder head replacements and the cost of equipment downtime, we prioritize quick processing and reliable delivery. For urgent orders or expedited shipping options, contact our team at 844.215.3406, and we’ll work to get your diesel cylinder head delivered as quickly as possible to minimize your repair time.
Do cylinder heads come with a warranty?
Yes, all cylinder heads and components sold by Highway & Heavy Parts come with manufacturer warranties that vary depending on whether the product is new or remanufactured. New cylinder heads typically carry comprehensive warranties covering defects in materials and workmanship, while remanufactured heads offer warranties specific to the rebuilding process and components. Warranty coverage details are provided with each product listing and at the time of purchase. For specific warranty information on cylinder heads for your Cummins, Caterpillar, Detroit Diesel, or other diesel engine, contact our customer service team or visit our warranty page.
