🧰 In-Frame Kits – Everything You Need to Know
If your rig needs an in-frame, you want the right kit, the right brand, and the information on how to install it. At Texas Truck Market, we keep it simple so you can get back on the road fast.
🔍 What’s Included in an In-Frame Kit?
OEM kits are usually less complete — you may need to order extra gaskets, seals, or other parts. Aftermarket kits often give you everything in one box, saving time and money.
A typical in-frame rebuild kit includes:
✅ Rod & Main Bearings
✅ Pistons & Liners
✅ Rings
✅ Pan Gaskets
✅ Upper Gasket Set
⚠️ Note: Some aftermarket kits (especially for CAT engines) don’t include the upper gasket set. Be sure to add it to your order.
🏆 What’s the Best In-Frame Kit Brand?
We carry all the top aftermarket brands:
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PAI Industries
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Interstate-McBee
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AFA Industries
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MAHLE
We also offer OEM kits for CAT, Cummins, and Detroit.
👉 The best brand is usually the one your mechanic knows best. If he’s installed hundreds of PAI kits, stick with PAI — experience means fewer mistakes, faster installs, and better reliability.
🔧 Tips & Tricks for Installing an In-Frame Kit
📋 Give the parts counter all your engine information.
Kits can vary a lot depending on engine model and year. For example, the CAT 3406 uses paper gaskets on the front structure, while its newer cousin, the CAT C15, uses metal gaskets. At first glance they may look interchangeable, but the thicker metal gasket shifts other components and can cause leaks.
➡️ Pay attention to the arrows on engine parts.
Arrows on pistons and liners should almost always point to the front of the engine. On a CAT 3406E, this is critical: the piston head has a clearance cut for the cooling nozzle. If installed backward, the piston will hit the nozzle, damage it, and prevent proper lubrication — which can lead to engine failure.
🧑🔧 Rely on experience.
While there’s a lot of information online about how to rebuild an engine, every kit and engine is different. We always recommend calling a trusted mechanic who has done this before.
📞 Need help?
If you get stuck during an install or need technical information, call our office. One of our techs will be glad to walk you through the details.
🚛 Bottom Line
At Texas Truck Market, we stock aftermarket in-frame kits for CAT, Cummins, Detroit, Mack, Volvo, and International. We also have tech support ready if you get stuck during a job.
📞 832-867-3345 | 💻 texastruckmarket.com | 📍819 Hill rd. Houston, TX