Caterpillar 3116

[Bat21]

Looking at a 38ft boat from the early 90's with a pair of Cat 3116's less than 2000 hours each, I have been advised that these engines had a reputation for problems early in life, and will need special tools and knowledge to service, I haven't been able to find a cat specialist locally. Would I be correct in thinking that they will probably need a comprehensive service and possible overhaul at 2000 hours and 20+ years?

Does any one have knowledge of these engines?

 

[rafiki_]

MapisM has a pair of these in his boat, and as far as I know, he is very happy with them. I have the 3126's in mine, and understand that there was a problem with the block in their early days, but these were exchanged by Cat. Mine need a "Valve lap" at 250 hours, which should be done by Finnings, but I don't think anything else is too difficult for a good heavy duty diesel technician. I can't comment on the hours, as this is so dependent on the level of maintenance the engines have received over the years. 2000 sounds quite a lot for a leisure boat, but as these engines have several other uses including buses etc, 2000 hours is not a lot.
Latestarter1 is the guru for Cat, Cummings, Perkins and many others on this forum.

 

[CMJ]

I haven't been able to find a cat specialist locally.

LOL - not surprised I guess considering your location is 'Another Planet'

 

[Spare Thyme]

Take the engine serial numbers to Finning, they will have all the data if they have been OEM serviced and have had regular oil tests. That's providing you are in the UK.

 

[Bat21]

thanks for the info.