With Cummins becoming more popular, you may be questioning what engine would be best for your rig. Although some things are the same from one engine to another (such as horsepower and torque), the differences in engines can outweigh those similarities. It's important that you make sure you understand what your rig needs, what type of performance you want, and how much you want to spend before making a decision on which engine is best for your truck.
Turbocharged Engine
The turbocharger is a device that uses a turbine to increase the pressure of air entering the engine. The increased pressure forces more fuel into the cylinders, which allows for more power from each explosion. Turbochargers are often used on diesel engines to improve the power output.
Turbocharged engines are often used in racing and performance vehicles because they provide higher horsepower and torque than naturally aspirated engines. However, turbocharged engines also require more maintenance because the turbocharger is a mechanical component that can wear out over time.
Horsepower vs. Torque
Let's start with horsepower and torque. Horsepower measures the energy output of an engine. Think of it like a horse that can pull a certain amount of weight up a hill. In this case, the horse is your engine, and the weight is your vehicle and its cargo. Torque is a measurement of force an engine can apply to turn something — in this case, it's how much force an engine can apply to make your vehicle move forward or backward.
Cold-Weather Rating
Another important consideration when choosing an engine is whether or not it has a cold-weather rating. A cold-weather rating ensures that your engine will start in temperatures below freezing. This is important in areas where there's snow or ice during the winter months. If you don't have a cold-weather rating, then it would be impossible for you to drive your RIG during those months without risking damage to your vehicle and possibly even injury to yourself or others around you.
Fuel Mileage
This is the most important consideration you should make when choosing an engine for your new rig. Fuel mileage is critical in determining how much it will cost you to operate your vehicle on a daily basis. Most vehicles have a fuel economy rating (also known as mpg), which will tell you how many miles per gallon (mpg) they get while driving. The higher this number is, the better.
Engine Towing Capacity
Towing capacity is a major consideration when choosing an engine for your rig. You need to be able to tow the trailer, camper, or boat you want and still have enough power left over for the other things you do with your vehicle.
The most common way to measure a vehicle's towing capacity is by using the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR). The GCWR includes all weight added to the vehicle — passengers, cargo, optional equipment, and trailer tongue weight — as well as the weight of the vehicle itself.
Choosing an engine for your rig depends on a lot of factors, including what you want from the engine and how much you're willing to spend. Start by looking at your options, such as a Cummins 5.9 or Cummins 6.7 performance engine.
