Remanufactured CAT C7 7.2L (440 ci) Engine For Sale
2003–2009 — 190–330 hp | 520–860 lb-ft
The Caterpillar C7 was introduced in 2003 as a medium-duty diesel engine designed for trucks, buses, RVs, and specialty vehicles. With 7.2 liters of displacement and horsepower ratings from 190 to 330...
Starting from $5,000 – $9,000 — 1-Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty
CAT C7 Technical Specifications
About the Caterpillar C7 Engine
The Caterpillar C7 was introduced in 2003 as a medium-duty diesel engine designed for trucks, buses, RVs, and specialty vehicles. With 7.2 liters of displacement and horsepower ratings from 190 to 330 hp, the C7 filled the gap between light-duty and heavy-duty applications. The C7 replaced the popular 3126 engine and used Caterpillar's HEUI fuel injection system for precise fuel delivery. The C7 ACERT was widely adopted across the medium-duty truck market, powering everything from Ford F-650s to school buses to fire trucks. The 2007+ models introduced a DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) with an Active Regeneration Device (ARD) head mounted on the exhaust manifold, which became a known maintenance item. Despite this, the C7 remains one of the most common medium-duty diesel engines on the road, with strong parts support and a large installed base.
CAT C7 Strengths
- Versatile medium-duty engine suitable for trucks, buses, RVs, and specialty vehicles
- HEUI fuel system provides excellent throttle response and fuel atomization
- Compact size fits in a wide range of medium-duty chassis
- Strong torque output for its displacement — ideal for stop-and-go applications
- Large installed base means abundant parts and service expertise
- Available in a wide range of horsepower ratings for diverse applications
Common CAT C7 Issues (Addressed in Our Remanufactured Engines)
- ACERT DPF/ARD head failures on 2007+ models — the ARD head mounted on the exhaust manifold is expensive to replace
- HEUI injector failures cause rough running, white smoke, and hard starting
- Oil pump drive gear failures on some model years
- Turbocharger failures, particularly on ACERT models with variable vane technology
- Cracked exhaust manifolds due to thermal cycling in stop-and-go applications
- Wiring harness issues and sensor failures causing intermittent fault codes
Vehicles with the CAT C7
Available CAT C7 Remanufactured Engines
CAT C7 Buying Guide
When purchasing a remanufactured Caterpillar C7, the model year is critical. Pre-2007 C7 engines without DPF/ARD are simpler and generally more reliable. The 2007+ models with DPF require more emissions maintenance and the ARD head is an expensive component. Verify the horsepower rating (190–330 hp) matches your vehicle's requirements. For school bus and RV applications, lower horsepower ratings (190–250 hp) are typical. For medium-duty trucks, 250–330 hp is common. A quality remanufactured C7 should include new HEUI injectors, rebuilt turbo, new oil pump, and a complete gasket set.
Frequently Asked Questions — CAT C7
How much does a remanufactured Caterpillar C7 engine cost?
A remanufactured Caterpillar C7 engine typically costs between $5,000 and $9,000 depending on the model year, horsepower rating, and emissions configuration. Pre-2007 models without DPF are generally less expensive. All our CAT C7 engines are fully dyno tested and backed by our comprehensive warranty. Call (631) 991-7700 for an exact quote.
Is the CAT C7 a good engine?
The Caterpillar C7 is a capable medium-duty engine with strong performance in its class. The pre-2007 models are particularly reliable. The 2007+ models with DPF/ARD have more maintenance requirements but still offer solid performance. The C7's HEUI fuel system provides excellent throttle response, and its compact size makes it versatile across many applications.
What are common Caterpillar C7 problems?
Common C7 issues include HEUI injector failures (rough running, white smoke), DPF/ARD head failures on 2007+ models, oil pump drive gear failures, turbocharger issues, and cracked exhaust manifolds. The ARD head on 2007+ models is the most expensive known issue. Our remanufactured C7 engines address all known problems with updated components.
What trucks use the Caterpillar C7 engine?
The Caterpillar C7 was installed in Ford F-650/F-750, International 4300/4400, Peterbilt 335/340, Kenworth T300/T370, Freightliner M2 106/M2 112, Blue Bird and Thomas Built school buses, Spartan fire truck chassis, and various RV chassis. It was the dominant medium-duty diesel engine during its production run.
What replaced the Caterpillar C7?
When Caterpillar exited the on-highway market in 2010, the C7 was not directly replaced by another CAT engine. Most medium-duty trucks transitioned to Cummins ISB 6.7L, Paccar PX-7, or International/Navistar engines. The C7 remains widely used and well-supported in the aftermarket.
How many miles can a CAT C7 last?
A well-maintained Caterpillar C7 can last 300,000 to 500,000 miles before requiring a major overhaul. In school bus and RV applications with lower annual mileage, C7 engines routinely last 10–15+ years. Regular oil changes, HEUI system maintenance, and coolant service are critical for longevity.
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Step-by-step guide for installing your remanufactured engine.
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