26 13 50 Cylinder Head for Air Brake Compressors

What does a cylinder head do?

A cylinder head is the cast service part that closes off the top of an air brake compressor's cylinder block and carries the seats for the inlet and discharge valves. It holds the piston's compressed air without leaking, routes it out through the discharge port, and helps manage compression heat from the body. This component allows for a compressor to be rebuilt in place rather than replacing the entire unit.

Compatible vehicles and engines

This specific cylinder head is designed for heavy commercial vehicle applications. It is compatible with Detroit Diesel 60 Series, DD13, DD15, and DD16 engines found in Freightliner models such as Cascadia and Columbia, as well as Kenworth T800 and Western Star 5700XE. It also fits various models from International, Sterling, and Peterbilt trucks. These components are also fitted to Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

Installation and maintenance

When performing installation, ensure that the discharge port threads and bolt hole patterns match your current compressor assembly exactly. Because even minor deviations in flatness on the sealing face can cause air leaks, technicians should always verify that the component matches the original specifications before assembly. Proper torque application during installation is critical to maintain a secure seal under high-pressure operation.