Cummins Marine Engine Parts
(3 products)This page is focused on Cummins marine diesel engines (often branded Cummins MerCruiser Diesel/QSD). It helps you find compatible parts and service information, with maintenance tips, common replacement categories, and troubleshooting guidance. You can also browse the main MerCruiser collection. Scroll to the bottom of the page to start browsing parts for this engine, and on the collection page use the Filter & Sort controls to narrow results by horsepower, year range, and part category.
Browse All MerCruiser PartsHow to Identify Your Cummins Model
- Nameplate/serial label: Look for the Engine Serial Number (ESN) on the rocker cover, timing cover, or a side plate on the cylinder block; a secondary decal may be on the engine’s starboard side. The sterndrive transom assembly may also carry a separate serial if paired to a MerCruiser drive.
- Model code basics: Common diesel designations include QSD 2.0, QSD 2.8 (inline‑4) and QSD/CMD 4.2 (V6, often VM‑based). Suffixes may indicate power rating, emissions calibration, cooling/aftercooling, or drive pairing.
- Platform differences: Inline‑4 QSD 2.0/2.8 versus V6 4.2. Many service parts are platform‑specific (filters, belts, seawater impellers) and may not interchange.
- Have details ready: ESN/serial, full model code, drive type (e.g., Bravo 1/2/3), and any accessories (closed cooling/heat exchanger) to confirm exact parts.
Platform Overview
QSD 2.0 / QSD 2.8 Inline‑4
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Configuration | Inline‑4, turbocharged common‑rail diesel with seawater raw‑water pump; typically paired with MerCruiser Bravo sterndrives or inboard gear. |
| Common Models | QSD 2.0 (approx. 115–130 hp classes), QSD 2.8 (approx. 165–200 hp classes); multiple emissions/ECU calibrations. |
| Advantages | Compact package, good fuel efficiency, broad torque band for cruising and planing hulls. |
| Notes | Fuel and air filtration, seawater impellers, and belts are service‑critical. Verify ESN for filter and pump compatibility. |
QSD/CMD 4.2 V6 (VM‑based)
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Configuration | V6, 4.2L turbocharged/intercooled common‑rail diesel; frequently factory‑mated to MerCruiser Bravo drives. |
| Common Models | 4.2 variants in the ~250–320 hp classes with different ECU and cooling configurations. |
| Advantages | Strong mid‑range torque for heavier boats; robust charging for onboard electronics. |
| Notes | Air intake and seawater circuits are sensitive to restriction. Always match anodes and impellers to the exact serial range. |
Routine Maintenance & Service Parts
Intervals below are general guidelines for many diesel sterndrive/inboard installations; always follow your engine’s official service manual and local operating conditions.
| Item | Interval* | Remarks | Parts Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine oil + filter | Every 100 hours or annually | Use marine‑grade diesel oil meeting spec for your exact QSD/CMD model. | MerCruiser Oil Filters |
| Primary/secondary fuel filters | Inspect 50 hours; replace 100–200 hours or annually | Water contamination quickly reduces performance; carry spares onboard. | MerCruiser Fuel Filters |
| Raw‑water pump impeller | Every 200 hours or 2 years (sooner in sandy/silty water) | Replace proactively to avoid overheat and seal damage. | MerCruiser Impellers |
| Sterndrive gear lube (Bravo) | Every 100 hours or annually | Check for water intrusion/metal fines; service seals as needed. | MerCruiser Service & Maintenance Kits |
| Anodes (hull/drive/heat‑exchanger) | Inspect monthly in saltwater; replace when 50% depleted | Match material to water type (zinc/salt, aluminum/brackish, magnesium/fresh). | MerCruiser Anodes |
| Air filter | Inspect 100 hours; replace as needed | Restriction causes black smoke and power loss. | MerCruiser Air Filters |
| Serpentine/drive belt | Inspect 100 hours; replace 200–300 hours or 2 years | Look for cracking, glazing, dust; tension per spec. | Belts |
Frequently Used Parts Categories
- Routine Service – MerCruiser Service & Maintenance Kits
- Cooling System – Water Pumps and MerCruiser Impellers
- Fuel System – MerCruiser Fuel Filters
- Electrical & Starting – Electrical Items, Starters, Alternators
- Corrosion Protection – MerCruiser Anodes
- Air & Filtration – MerCruiser Air Filters
- Propulsion – MerCruiser Propellers
Common Symptoms & Quick Checks
| Symptom | Check First | Related Parts |
|---|---|---|
| High temp alarm / overheating | Raw‑water intake screen/strainer, seawater pump impeller, belt slip, coolant level (if closed cooling), thermostat operation. | Water pump impeller/kit, intake screen, hoses & clamps, thermostat, anodes. |
| Poor acceleration / power loss | Fuel filters for restriction/water, air filter blockage, boost/turbo hose leaks, fouled prop. | Fuel filters, air filter, turbo/charge‑air hoses, propeller. |
| Hard starting / rough idle | Battery voltage, air in fuel lines, filter condition, glow/starting aid function, sensor connections. | Starters, electrical items/sensors, fuel filters, hoses & clamps. |
| Black smoke under load | Air filter restriction, over‑propped boat, charge‑air leaks, heavy growth on hull/prop. | Air filter, propeller, hoses, anodes (growth mitigation with proper protection). |
| Gearcase noise / metal in gear lube | Oil level/condition, water intrusion, seal condition, prop shaft fishing line, correct lube spec. | Service kits, seals, propeller hardware. |
FAQs
Are parts interchangeable between QSD 2.0/2.8 and 4.2 platforms?
Not typically. Filters, belts, pumps, and many sensors are platform‑ and serial‑specific. Always verify with your ESN and full model code.
When should I replace the seawater impeller?
As a preventive measure every 200 hours or 2 years, sooner in sandy/silty water or if you observe reduced flow/high temperature alarms.
How often should sterndrive gear lube be changed?
Commonly every 100 hours or annually. Inspect for water contamination and metal fines; address seals promptly if intrusion is found.
What information helps confirm compatibility?
Provide the engine serial/ESN, full model designation, drive type (e.g., Bravo 1/2/3), cooling configuration (raw/closed), and the specific part you’re replacing.
Ready to maintain your Cummins/CMD engine? Browse the main MerCruiser collection and filter by model, year, and part category to find compatible components.
Shop MerCruiser PartsIf you’re unsure about your model, send us a photo of the nameplate and the part you need and we’ll help verify compatibility.
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SeaSierra
Air Filter for MerCruiser / Cummins 2.0L QSD Diesel Engines – Replaces Mercury 35-879172143
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Thermostat for MerCruiser Stern Drive 2.0L Engines, 115–170 HP, 181°F (83°C) – Replaces 879150054
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