The Cat C16 engine (Caterpillar C-16), with its robust 15.8-liter displacement, stands as one of Caterpillar’s most respected powerplants for heavy-duty trucking. Designed to deliver exceptional torque, long-haul durability, and reliable performance under extreme operating conditions, the C-16 earned a reputation as a workhorse across logistics, mining, construction, and specialized transport.
Its high-output configurations made it a favorite among operators needing serious pulling power, while its proven Cat engineering ensured long engine life and reduced downtime. Even years after production ended, the C16 continues to be admired for its blend of raw power, mechanical strength, and dependable operation - qualities that keep it relevant in the heavy-duty engine market today.
Cat C16 Performance Data
| Engine | CAT C16 DM4928 (575 hp) | CAT C16 DM4930 (600 hp) | CAT C16 MT-T4 (575/600 hp) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Cylinders | 6 (Inline) | 6 (Inline) | 6 (Inline) |
| Displacement | 964 cu in (15.8 L) | 964 cu in (15.8 L) | 964 cu in (15.8 L) |
| Bore | 5.4 in (137 mm) | 5.4 in (137 mm) | 5.4 in (137 mm) |
| Stroke | 6.5 in (165 mm) | 6.5 in (165 mm) | 6.5 in (165 mm) |
| Operating Range | (1200–2100) 900 rpm | (1200–2100) 900 rpm | (1200–2100) 900 rpm |
| Max Engine Speed | 2120 rpm | 2120 rpm | 2120 rpm |
| Governed Speed | 2100 rpm | 2100 rpm | 2100 rpm |
| Max Power | 575 hp (428 kW) | 600 hp (448 kW) | 575 hp (428 kW) / 600 hp (448 kW) |
| Power Measured | 1700 rpm | 1600 rpm | 1700 rpm |
| Peak Torque | 1850 lb ft (2516 Nm) | 2050 lb ft (2788 Nm) | 1850 lb ft (2516 Nm) / 2050 lb ft (2788 Nm) |
| Torque Measured | 1200 rpm | 1200 rpm | 1200 rpm |
| Torque Rise | 32% | 42% | 32% / 42% |
| Altitude Capability | 7500 ft (2288 m) / 10007 ft (3050 m) | 7500 ft (2288 m) / 10007 ft (3050 m) | 7500 ft (2288 m) / 10007 ft (3050 m) |
| Operating Voltage | 12 / 24 V | 12 / 24 V | 12 / 24 V |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged & aftercooled (ATAAC) | Turbocharged & aftercooled (ATAAC) | Turbocharged & aftercooled (ATAAC) |
| Emission Standards | Pre-EPA (non-EGR) | Pre-EPA (non-EGR) | Pre-EPA (non-EGR) |
Performance is based on SAE J1995 standard conditions of 29.61 in. Hg (100 kPa) and 77° F (25° C). uel consumption is based on fuel oil having an LHV of 18 390 Btu/lb (42 780 kJ/kg) and weighing 7.001 lb/U.S. gal (839 g/L).
CAT C-16 Dimensions
| Dry Weight (approx) | 2695 lb (1225 kg) |
| Length | 57.2 in (1453 mm) |
| Width | 39.3 in (999 mm) |
| Height | 49.7 in (1263 mm) |
| Head Material | Cast iron, 4-valve per cylinder |
| Block Material | Cast iron |
| Typical Applications | Heavy-haul trucks, logging, mining, oilfield rigs |
Service Refill Capacities
| Engine Oil Capacity (w/o filter) | 10 gal (38.8 L) |
| Cooling System Capacity (engine only) | 5.5 gal (20.8 L) |
Standard Equipment
- Crankcase breather, valve cover mounted
- Electronic control module (ECM)
- Electronic data link, ATA/SAE
- Electronically controlled unit injector fuel system (EUI)
- Fan drive mounting bracket
- Fuel - spin-on filter, transfer pump
- Gear-driven jacket water pump
- Governor - full-range electronically controlled
- Lifting eyes
- Lubricating - cooler, right hand filler, full flow filter, gear-driven pump, front or rear sump pan
- SAE No. 1 flywheel housing
- Turbocharger
- Vibration damper
Accessory Equipment for Cat C-16
- Air compressor, gear driven 13.2, 16.5, or 31 cfm
- Air inlet elbows
- Alternator (12 V 65 A / 24 V 45 A or 60 A)
- Auxiliary pulleys and drives
- BrakeSaver (hydraulic retarder) - front or rear sump
- Coolant conditioner, dry-charge
- Exhaust couplings
- Fan and fan accessories
- Fan drive, adjustable
- Flywheels
- Front support
- Fuel priming pump
- Hydraulic steering pump drive, SAE A Jacobs® engine brake Model 340B
- Primary fuel filter
- Refrigerant compressor mounting
- Sound suppression panels - block
- Starter, 12 or 24 Volt
- Transmission mountings
Electronic Features
- ADEM 2000: Year 2000 compliant
- Cat Electronic self-diagnostics
- Passive sensors - increased reliability
- Electronically tabulated total fuel consumption, hours, idle time, and miles
- User-selectable, reprogrammable vehicle operating parameters - vehicle speed limiting, engine speed limiting, cruise control, intermediate gears and low gear rpm limits, geardown protection, and a full range of programmable PTO features.
- J1939 Data Link for full range of operational programs for vehicle, driver, driveline, and brake control.
NOTE: For best balance between fuel economy and performance requirements on linehaul vehicles with 80 000 lb or less use the following guidelines:- For 9, 10, or 15 speed single overdrive transmissions, gear to cruise at:
- 1550 rpm @ 65 mph for 410 hp and below
- 1500 rpm @ 65 mph for 435 hp and above. - For 13 or 18 speed dual overdrive transmissions, gear to cruise at:
- 1450 rpm @ 65 mph. - Maximum recommended engine speed at cruise - 1550 rpm.
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