FAW Truck Engines: The Complete Guide to Xichai & Weichai Powertrains, Specs & Maintenance

Faw Trucks | China Faw Jiefang Group

When searching for FAW truck engines, you are likely evaluating powertrain options for long-haul logistics, construction, or mining operations—or sourcing a replacement engine for an existing FAW truck. FAW trucks are powered by two main engine families: Xichai (FAW Jiefang’s own engine division) and Weichai Power. Each offers distinct advantages depending on your application, payload requirements, and operating conditions.

This guide covers the key FAW engine models, their specifications, and maintenance requirements to help you make an informed decision.

FAW’s Engine Strategy: Xichai and Weichai

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FAW Jiefang operates its own engine manufacturing division, Xichai (Wuxi Diesel Engine Works), which produces the CA6 series of diesel engines. These engines power the majority of FAW’s heavy-duty truck range, including the J6P, JH6, and J7 models. For certain export models and specific applications, FAW also equips trucks with Weichai Power engines, particularly in the medium-duty and tipper segments.

This dual-engine strategy gives FAW flexibility across different markets and applications. The Xichai CA6DM and CA6DL series are the primary engines for heavy-duty long-haul operations, while Weichai engines are commonly found in construction and mining tippers.

Key FAW Engine Models and Specifications

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CA6DM3 Series – The Flagship Heavy-Duty Engine

The CA6DM3 is FAW’s premium heavy-duty engine, designed for long-haul tractors and heavy freight operations. It is the engine that powers the new J7 flagship truck.

The CA6DM3 is available in multiple power ratings for different applications. In the J6P range, the CA6DM3-50E68 produces 500 hp with 2,600 Nm of torque, while the CA6DM3-56E68 delivers 560 hp for maximum payload capacity.

CA6DM2 Series – The Proven Workhorse

The CA6DM2 is the most widely used heavy-duty engine in FAW’s lineup, powering the J6P and JH6 ranges. It is available in 11.05L displacement with power ratings from 420 hp to 460 hp.

The CA6DM2-42E6 variant produces 420 hp with 2,200 Nm of torque, suitable for regional distribution and standard long-haul operations.

CA6DL Series – Economy and Versatility

The CA6DL series is designed for cost-sensitive applications where fuel efficiency and low operating costs are priorities. The CA6DL6-38E68 produces 380 hp from 8.57L displacement with 1,600 Nm of torque.

The CA6DL2-35E5 variant is commonly found in the J6P range, offering 350 hp for medium-duty logistics and vocational applications.

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CA6DK1 Series – Medium-Duty Efficiency

The CA6DK1 is a joint development between Deutz and FAW, utilizing a four-valve-per-cylinder head design to optimize the air-to-fuel ratio for more efficient combustion. It is available in 240, 260, 280, 300 and 320 horsepower ratings with torque levels from 920 to 1,200 Nm.

These engines are ideal for urban, regional and vocational operations, offering long service intervals and easy maintenance. Euro-4, Euro-5 and Euro-6 versions are available for different global markets.

Weichai WP10 Series – Construction and Mining

For tipper and construction applications, FAW trucks often use Weichai WP10 engines. The WP10.340E32 is a 9,726cc inline 6-cylinder, water-cooled, turbocharged and intercooled engine producing 340 hp (250 kW) at 2,200 rpm and 1,350 Nm of torque.

This engine is commonly found in the J5N 33.340FD tipper and is well-suited for demanding construction and mining environments where durability and low-end torque are critical.

Engine Maintenance and Service Intervals

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Oil Change Intervals

FAW recommends different oil change intervals depending on the engine model and whether it is equipped with long-mileage oil capabilities.

For models without long oil change interval: The first oil change should be performed at the end of new vehicle running in, at 2,500 km.

For long oil change interval models:

• WP10H/WP12/WP13 models: Use Weichai special long-mileage engine oil (CI-4, 10W/40)

• CA6DK, CA6DH models: Use CH-4 grade or higher grade oil

For resource transportation applications, FAW has developed long-acting lubricating oil that achieves lasting maintenance of engines, gearboxes, and rear axles every 60,000 kilometers.

Transmission Oil Intervals

Check the transmission oil level every 10,000 km and add as required. Replace transmission oil every 50,000 km for road vehicles and every 20,000 km for off-road vehicles.

Transmission oil capacity for FAW transmissions ranges from 15.8L to 18L depending on the model. In areas where the lowest temperature is above -12°C, use 85W/90 (GL-5) vehicle gear oil throughout the year.

Air Filter Maintenance

In dusty areas, replace the oil filter every 3 months or every 5,000 km of driving. Regular inspection of the clutch, radiating ribs, wiring harness, and connectors is essential, especially in earthwork and mining environments where dust and oil sludge accumulate.

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Engine Performance and Fuel Efficiency

Fuel System Inspection

The condition of the fuel system has a crucial impact on engine power and fuel consumption. When a vehicle lacks power or shows abnormal fuel consumption, a complete inspection of the fuel system is essential.

The fuel system inspection includes both the low-pressure and high-pressure fuel circuits:

• Low-pressure circuit: Fuel tank → Coarse filter → Gear pump → Fine filter

• High-pressure circuit: High-pressure pump → Common rail → Injector

A blockage in the low-pressure fuel circuit may result in insufficient fuel supply and weak acceleration. A blockage in the high-pressure fuel system causes abnormal system pressure, triggering the common rail relief valve to open through the protection mechanism, causing the vehicle to enter “limp-home” mode.

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Spring Maintenance for Engines

As weather warms up, perform thorough checks on power and emissions systems. Change oil, coolant, and the “three filters” (oil filter, diesel filter, and air filter). If lower-grade engine oil and diesel fuel were used during winter, switch back promptly to grades suitable for normal ambient temperatures.

Pay special attention to the urea pump, nozzles, and lines to check for crystallization or blockages. Urea is particularly prone to crystallizing in cold weather; if left uncleared, the OBD fault light will illuminate, causing the vehicle to enter “torque-limiting” mode.

Local Support in Southern Africa

FAW Trucks Southern Africa has established a comprehensive support network for engine parts and service. The FAW Parts Distribution Centre categorizes parts based on demand, including fast-moving parts, high-value parts, specialized parts, and special order/VOR parts, ensuring that essential components are always available.

The company has implemented a 72-hour turnaround objective for vehicle failures, with decentralized stocking of high-demand parts at dealer locations along major transportation routes. Cross-border dealer agreements ensure consistent availability across the region.

FAW’s dealer network continues to expand, with new 3S (Sales, Service, Parts) facilities opening across South Africa. The Eastern Cape flagship dealership in Port Elizabeth, operated by the Scribante Group, provides full engine service and parts support for construction, mining, and logistics customers.

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Summary

FAW trucks are powered by two proven engine families: the Xichai CA6 series (CA6DM3, CA6DM2, CA6DL, CA6DK) and Weichai WP series. The CA6DM3 is the flagship heavy-duty engine delivering up to 560 hp and 2,600 Nm of torque for long-haul applications. The CA6DM2 is the proven workhorse for J6P and JH6 models. The CA6DL and CA6DK series offer economical solutions for medium-duty and vocational operations. Weichai WP10 engines are commonly used in tipper and construction applications.

Proper maintenance is essential for engine longevity and performance. Follow the recommended oil change intervals, use appropriate grade lubricants, and inspect the fuel system regularly to maintain power and fuel efficiency. With FAW’s expanding parts distribution network and dealer support across Southern Africa, engine parts and service are increasingly accessible for fleet operators in the region.