The M10080-A Cylinder Head Test Plates are precision-machined service plates designed for pressure testing Caterpillar 3406 cylinder heads to verify casting integrity prior to installation. These plates seal the coolant and oil passages so the head can be safely pressurized in a machine shop or rebuild environment, allowing technicians to detect cracks, porosity, internal leakage, or casting defects that are not visible during visual inspection.
Built for professional use, the M10080-A set provides repeatable, leak-tight sealing during hydrostatic or air-over-water pressure testing. Installing a cylinder head that hasn’t been properly pressure tested can lead to coolant loss, oil contamination, overheating, head gasket failure, and costly comebacks. Using the M10080-A test plates ensures the head meets serviceability standards before final assembly.
OEM Tool Reference
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OEM Equivalent / Reference: Caterpillar factory-style head pressure test tooling
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Application-Specific to: Caterpillar 3406 cylinder heads
Compatibility Notes
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Engine Family: Caterpillar 3406
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Includes coverage for:
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3406A
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3406B
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3406C
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3406E (verify port configuration prior to testing)
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Not intended for: CAT 3306, C-15, or C-16 heads (different port layouts and sealing surfaces)
Important: Always confirm cylinder head casting number and port configuration before pressure testing to ensure correct plate orientation and sealing.
Key Features & Benefits
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Engine-Specific Design: Precision fit for CAT 3406 cylinder head coolant and oil passages.
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Professional Pressure Testing: Enables accurate detection of internal cracks and porosity.
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Prevents Costly Rework: Identifies defective heads before installation.
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Durable Construction: Designed to withstand repeated pressurization cycles.
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Machine-Shop Ready: Ideal for diesel engine rebuild and remanufacturing facilities.
Typical Applications
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Cylinder head pressure testing during engine rebuilds or remanufacturing
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Diagnostic verification after overheating or head gasket failure
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Diesel machine shops, engine rebuild facilities, and professional service centers
Why It Matters
A cylinder head is one of the most critical components in a diesel engine. Even a small, undetected crack can cause catastrophic failure after installation. The M10080-A Caterpillar 3406 Head Test Plates give technicians confidence that a head is structurally sound before it ever goes back on the engine—saving time, labor, and reputation.