Machinery & Truck PartsThe Caterpillar C7 is a 7.2-liter inline-six ACERT diesel built from 2003 to 2009, rated 210 to 360 hp, and used in medium-duty trucks, buses, RVs, and vocational equipment. Machinery and Truck Parts stocks tested used Cat C7 engines, each run-tested before it ships and backed by warranty. Call (800) 696-5459 with your truck or serial number and we'll confirm the right fit and give you a freight quote.
Cat C7 Engine Specifications
| Displacement | 7.2 L (441 cu in) |
| Configuration | Inline-6, 4-stroke turbodiesel |
| Bore x Stroke | 4.33 in x 5.00 in |
| Compression ratio | 16.2:1 |
| Horsepower | 210 to 360 hp (on-highway 210 to 300 hp) |
| Peak torque | 520 to 925 lb-ft |
| Governed speed | 1,800 to 2,200 rpm |
| Fuel system | HEUI injection (later builds common-rail) |
| Emissions technology | ACERT |
| ECM | Cat ADEM A4 |
| Dry weight | approx. 1,300 to 1,425 lb |
| Oil capacity | 4.75 gal (6.75 gal with deep sump) |
| Production years | 2003 to 2009 |
What Trucks and Equipment Use the Cat C7
The Cat C7 powered a wide range of medium-duty and vocational machines: Freightliner Business Class M2, Sterling, International, and GMC/Chevrolet medium-duty trucks; box and straight trucks, tow trucks, dump and utility trucks; school and shuttle buses; motorhomes and RVs; and fire, emergency, and light industrial equipment.
Cat C7 vs. Cat 3126
The C7 is the ACERT-era evolution of the Cat 3126. The two share the same bore, stroke, and basic block architecture, but the C7 upgraded the fuel system, valvetrain, and engine control module (the Cat ADEM A4 ECM). If you're cross-shopping, a 3126 is the older, pre-ACERT design and a C7 is its emissions-updated successor.
Common Cat C7 Problems and What to Check When Buying Used
Like any used diesel, a Cat C7's condition matters more than its badge. The known weak points to check are the HEUI fuel injectors and injection-actuation-pressure system, ACERT regeneration and diesel-particulate-filter concerns, turbocharger inlet clogging, overheating on long grades, and IAP sensor faults. A properly maintained C7 has a B50 life of roughly 450,000 to 500,000 miles. Every C7 we sell is run-tested before it ships, so these issues are caught before the engine leaves our shop — and each engine is backed by warranty.
Cat C7 Engines In Stock
Cat C7 Engine FAQ
What is a Cat C7 engine?
The Cat C7 is a 7.2-liter inline-six ACERT diesel engine produced by Caterpillar from 2003 to 2009, rated 210 to 360 hp. It was widely used in medium-duty trucks, buses, RVs, and vocational equipment.
What trucks use the Cat C7 engine?
The C7 was installed in medium-duty trucks such as the Freightliner Business Class M2, Sterling, International, and GMC/Chevrolet medium-duty models, as well as school and shuttle buses, tow trucks, dump trucks, and motorhomes.
How much does a used Cat C7 engine cost?
At Machinery and Truck Parts, used Cat C7 engines are priced based on year, hours, and configuration. Call (800) 696-5459 or see our current in-stock listings above for live pricing.
Is the Cat C7 a good engine?
The Cat C7 is regarded as a capable, widely serviceable medium-duty diesel with a B50 life of roughly 450,000 to 500,000 miles. Its main weak points are HEUI injectors and ACERT emissions components, which is why buying a run-tested, warrantied engine matters.
What are the most common Cat C7 problems?
The most common Cat C7 issues are HEUI fuel injector and injection-actuation-pressure faults, ACERT regeneration and DPF problems, turbocharger inlet clogging, overheating on grades, and IAP sensor failures.
What's the difference between the Cat C7 and the Cat 3126?
The C7 is the ACERT-era successor to the 3126. They share bore, stroke, and basic block architecture, but the C7 has an updated fuel system, valvetrain, and ADEM A4 ECM.
How many miles does a Cat C7 last?
With proper maintenance, a Cat C7 has a B50 rating of about 450,000 to 500,000 miles before a major overhaul.
Do your Cat C7 engines come tested and with a warranty?
Yes. Every Cat C7 we sell is run-tested before it ships and is backed by warranty, with freight quoted to your ZIP code nationwide.
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