The CAT 3116 and 3126 are two identical engines. Looking at these two engines from afar makes you think they are similar engines. The two engines are caterpillar engines, and the two are known for efficiency, durability, and reliability.
However, there are certain differences between the two engines, which I will discuss below.
The first difference between the two engines is the injectors. The 3116 has mechanical injectors. The injector has no electronic components that control it.
Another advantage of these mechanical control injectors is that they make them simpler and easier to troubleshoot without needing an electrician for support.
On the other side, the 3126 has electronic control injectors. These injectors are controlled by a coil which is attached to the injectors. The injectors have wires that supply current to open and close them. These are mechanical injectors but rather electronic injectors.
The fuel system of the 3126 injectors is called an electronic fuel injector (HEUI).
Another notable difference between the two engines is the improvement in emissions compliance. The 3126 is more advanced in technology so it was built to comply with emissions control. The electronic fuel control made it possible for the engine to achieve less pollution compared to the 3116.
The year of production made the 3126 more advanced in technology than the 3116. The 3116 was made in the 1980s, while the 3126 was made between the 1990s and early 2000s.
Therefore, it could be concluded that the 3126 was an upgrade from the 3116.
In terms of power and torque, the two engines are also different. The 3126 has the horsepower of 170 – 330 HP, while the 3116 has the horsepower of 170 – 300. Which means the 3126 possesses more power than the 3116.
Although the two engines have the same engine block, they have different displacements. For example, the 3116 has a displacement of 6.6 liter while the 3126 has a displacement of 7.2 liter. Which means the cylinder has a different volume.
Regarding the applications, the two engines can be used interchangeably unless the issue of emissions becomes paramount; then, the 3126 has the edge over the 3116.
