Caterpillar 3208 Marine Engine Specs and Key Features

The Caterpillar 3208 Marine Engine is designed to meet the rigorous demands of the marine environment. Whether you're operating a commercial fishing vessel, a yacht, or a workboat, this engine offers unmatched performance and versatility.

Caterpillar 3208 Marine Engine Specs (210 hp, 375 hp, 435 hp)

With its turbocharged and aftercooled design, the 3208 DINA / DITA delivers impressive power, ensuring you can navigate through rough waters and reach your destination quickly and efficiently. But it doesn't stop there - the 3208 Marine Engine is also highly fuel-efficient, ensuring you can make the most of every drop of fuel. Its advanced engine management system optimizes fuel delivery and combustion, resulting in reduced emissions and lower operating costs. With enhanced fuel economy, you can extend your range and spend more time on the water enjoying the journey.

Caterpillar 3208 Marine Engine Specs

Engine CAT 3208 DINA, 210 hp CAT 3208 DITA, 375 hp CAT 3208 DITA, 435 hp
Number of Cylinders 8 8 8
Displacement 636 cu in (10.4 L) 636 cu in (10.4 L) 636 cu in (10.4 L)
Bore 4.5 in (114 mm) 4.5 in (114 mm) 4.5 in (114 mm)
Stroke 5.0 in (127 mm) 5.0 in (127 mm) 5.0 in (127 mm)
Max Power (E Rating*) 210 hp (157 kW) @ 2800 rpm 375 hp (280 kW) @ 2800 rpm 435 hp (325 kW) @ 2800 rpm
Peak Torque 489 lb ft (663 Nm) @ 1500 rpm 746 lb ft (1015 Nm) @ 2400 rpm 1030 lb ft (1397 Nm) @ 2000 rpm
Compression Ratio 16.5:1 16.5:1 15.5:1
Flywheel and Flywheel Housing SAE No. 2, SAE No. 3 SAE No. 2, SAE No. 3 SAE No. 2, SAE No. 3
Lubricating System Positive crankcase ventilation valve, oil filter, filler, oil level gauge Crankcase breather, oil filter, filler, oil level gauge Crankcase breather, oil filter, filler, oil level gauge
Fuel System System Direct Injection Direct Injection Direct Injection
Cooling System Jacket water pump Auxiliary sea water pump + coolant recovery tank Auxiliary sea water pump + coolant recovery tank
Rotation (from flywheel end) CCW CCW CCW
Starter 12 V 12 V 12 V
Alternator 51 amps, 12 V, belt driven 51 amps, 12 V, belt driven 51 amps, 12 V, belt driven
Air Cleaner Dry type, single stage air filter Cat AirSep Kit Cat AirSep Kit
Aspiration Naturally Aspirated Turbocharged-Aftercooled (DITA) Turbocharged-Aftercooled (DITA)
Exhaust system Exhaust manifold, water cooled, dual 2.5 in (64 mm) round flanged threaded outlets Exhaust manifold and turbocharger, water cooled, 6 in (152 mm) round flanged outlet Exhaust manifold and turbocharger, water cooled, 6 in (152 mm) round flanged outlet
Emission Standards IMO compliant IMO compliant IMO compliant

E Rating - Planing hull vessels such as pleasure craft, harbor patrol, harbor master, and some fishing and pilot boats.

Caterpillar 3208 Marine Engine Dimensions

Caterpillar 3208 Marine Engine Dimensions

Engine 3208 DINA, 210 hp 3208 DITA, 375 hp 3208 DITA, 435 hp
Dry Weight 1592 lb (722 kg) 1702 lb (772 kg) 1982 lb (899 kg)
Length 42.7 in (1086 mm) 50.0 in (1271 mm) 50.0 in (1271 mm)
Width 36.1 in (917 mm) 37.9 in (963 mm) 37.9 in (963 mm)
Height 36.2 in (921 mm) 40.1 in (1019 mm) 40.1 in (1019 mm)

Cat 3208 DITA Marine Engine Specs

Service Refill Capacities

Engine Model 3208 Marine, DINA, 210 hp 3208 Marine, DITA, 375 hp 3208 Marine, DITA, 435 hp
Engine Oil Capacity (w/o filter) 3.2 gal (12 L) 4 gal (15 L) 4 gal (15 L)
Cooling System Capacity (engine only) 12.5 gal (47.3 L) 14.8 gal (56 L) 14.8 gal (56 L)

Caterpillar 3208 Marine Engine Equipment

In addition to its performance and efficiency, the Caterpillar 3208 Marine Engine is built to withstand the harsh marine environment. With its rugged construction and durable materials, this engine can handle the toughest conditions, delivering reliable operation day after day. Its robust design also minimizes maintenance and downtime, keeping your vessel on the water and maximizing productivity.

Caterpillar 3208 Marine Engine Equipment
  1. Jacket water heater element 
  2. Oil filler 
  3. Lifting eye 
  4. Oil level gauge 
  5. Fuel priming pump 
  6. Engine air cleaner element 
  7. Cooling system filler cap 
  8. Heat exchanger 
  9. Zinc rods 
  10. Heat exchanger drain 
  11. Jacket water drain plug 
  12. Engine crankcase breather 
  13. Secondary fuel filter 
  14. Alternator 
  15. Oil drain plug 
  16. Exhaust 
  17. Crankshaft vibration damper 
  18. Auxiliary water pump 
  19. Engine oil cooler 
  20. Aftercooler drain 
  21. Companion flange 
  22. Oil filters 
  23. Marine transmission oil cooler 
  24. Starting motor 

When it comes to marine engines, reliability is paramount, and Caterpillar understands this better than anyone. With the Cat 3208 Marine Engine, you can have peace of mind knowing you have a trusted and proven engine dedicated to delivering uncompromising performance, efficiency, and dependability. From commercial applications to recreational boating, the Caterpillar 3208 DINA / DITA Marine Engine is the ideal choice for any marine vessel.

Caterpillar 3208 Marine Engine Key Features

The Caterpillar 3208 Marine engine is a popular choice for marine applications and has several advantages and key features:

  1. Power and Performance: The Caterpillar 3208 Marine engine is known for its robust power and performance. It is designed to deliver high torque at low engine speeds, making it suitable for heavy-duty marine applications.
  2. Reliability: Caterpillar has a reputation for manufacturing high-quality and reliable engines, and the 3208 is no exception. It is built to withstand the harsh marine environment, ensuring long-lasting performance and minimal downtime.
  3. Fuel Efficiency: This engine is relatively fuel-efficient for its size and power output. It has a good power-to-weight ratio, which helps reduce fuel consumption and operating costs over time.
  4. Compact Size: The compact design of the Caterpillar 3208 engine makes it easier to install in various marine vessels, especially those with limited engine room space. This advantage allows for more flexibility in vessel design and layout.
  5. Easy Maintenance: The engine is designed with accessibility in mind, making it easier for routine maintenance and servicing. This helps reduce maintenance costs and downtime associated with engine maintenance.
  6. Adaptability: The Caterpillar 3208 Marine engine can be customized and adapted to suit different applications and requirements. It offers a range of optional features and accessories, such as cooling systems, instrumentation, and exhaust systems, allowing for greater flexibility in marine installations.
Cat 3208 Marine Turbocharged Engine Specs

However, like any engine, the Caterpillar 3208 Marine engine also has some disadvantages:

  1. Size and Weight: Although it is relatively compact for its power output, the Caterpillar 3208 Marine engine is still a sizable and heavy engine. This can limit its use in smaller vessels or situations where weight restrictions are critical.
  2. Noise and Vibration: This engine can produce considerable noise and vibration, which may require additional soundproofing measures in the vessel's design. This can add cost and complexity to the installation process.

When comparing the Caterpillar 3208 Marine engine with similar models, it's important to consider factors such as power output, fuel consumption, reliability, and adaptability to specific vessel requirements. Some comparable engines in the market include the Cummins QSB, Yanmar 6AY, and Volvo Penta D13. Conducting a detailed analysis of these engines' specifications and consulting with experts can help determine which engine is the best fit for a specific marine application.

Comments

blogger said…
Ideal replacement for a Cat 3208 TA engine is an new CAT C7.1. If you repower the 3208 at 435 bhp @ 2800 RPM with the C7.1 500 bhp @ 2900 RPM, you can achieve 15% more power with 18% lower weight. This will translate into higher top end speed & significantly better holeshot performance, but with comparable fuel consumption.