The Caterpillar 3116: A Complete Guide to Specifications, Applications, and Performance

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The Cat 3116 is an engine known for durability. It was introduced into the market in the 1980s. It is a turbocharged engine. When the engine was designed, it was majorly used for marine propulsion due to its durability. Another mind-blowing point is that this engine can be used as a single unit or in tandem with another engine for marine propulsion.

Since then, this engine has been used in different applications and to good effect.

In terms of the rpm, the engine can maintain the rpm of 2500-2800 and can produce different horsepower at different rpm.

For example, at 2500 rpm, the engine can produce up to 200 horsepower, while at 2800 rpm, the engine can produce close to 350 horsepower, making it a very powerful engine.

The engine displacement means the volume of the cylinder and the amount of fuel and air the piston can push. The engine has a displacement of 6.6 liters, with a compression ratio of 16:1.

Let’s talk about the engine torque. The torque of the engine is between 420 – 735 lb-ft. The engine torque is another indication shown the power possessed by this engine.

The CAT 3116 is very similar to the CAT 3126. There is not much difference between the two engines. Learn about the differences between the 2 engines here.

In terms of the configuration, it is a 6-cylinder inline engine with a turbo. Because it is a straight engine, it prevents it from having issues that come along with the V-engine.

This can be used in different applications such as;

  • a. Truck: it is mostly used in medium trucks such as school buses and city buses.
  • b. Marine boats: You can also find this engine in tugboats, fishing boats, and other medium boats.
  • c. Industrial equipment and Agricultural equipment: It could also be found in cranes, forklifts, generators, and tractors.

What about the fuel efficiency? Well, many engines have mechanical injectors and are not fuel efficient, but 3116 is fuel very efficient.

The maintenance of the engine is also not difficult; if you can follow the manufacturer’s instructions, such as regular oil changes, filter replacement, and valve adjustments, then you will be able to reduce engine downtime.

Regarding the engine’s technology, it can be considered obsolete due to recent technological advances. For example, the 3126 is an upgraded version of the 3116 due to electronic injectors.

However, that never condemned the engine as one of the best among the caterpillar engines.

The relevancy of the engine is never in doubt, which is why the parts are still much available, especially at ProDieselParts; you will find any parts you want to keep your CAT 3116 running.