Hey all. A friend of mine has got me interested in restoring an old big rig. I've been looking around and have found one with a cummins big cam 3, and one with a 3406a cat. Both have low miles on rebuild. The rigs being equal, which engine would be best to hot rod? I only know 12 valve cummins. I dont know anything about the big stuff. Any advise?

 

Tough to beat a Cat.

 

3406

 

3406 for sure.

 

ive not worked on a 3406 cat, but worked alot on the big cam. there pretty decent motors them selves

 

the cat will be better for building up, the cummins has little tricks u can throw at it but cat is ez to build.

 

The Cummins will be easier and alot cheaper to build, and rebuild. "A" model 3406's were strong engines,no doubt, but as were the Cummins Big Cams. I am A tried and true Cat man myself, but you have to give credit where it is due, the old "A" models are just expensive to make last.

 

My vote is for the Big Cam. Now if you could find a Cummins KTA then you would have a beast.

 

3406 for sure

 

Cummin's tricks, a fuel button and a stinger. Would really need to keep an eye on the pyro and RPM. Time the cam followers to the advanced edge of the spec for the engine number. Have seen these mods done but normally ends up melting the pistons to the liners. Pulled like heck though. Have fun.