3208 TA Cat

[Misssjody]

I am considering the purchase of a 1989, 43 ft, 32,000 lb trawler motor yacht. The boat is equipped with twin 3208 TA cat engines, 2400 hrs. I am concerned with the engines being oversized for this boat and the reliability and lonjevity of the engines in this application
Any input would be appreciated.

 

[ghost]

I have low horsepower 3208 na in a 48 foot boat of about 46000 lb. if you run a higher hp version at lower speeds, you will essentially see the longevity of the lower hp version. In reality it’s a bit more nuanced than that, but you get the idea.

 

[Misssjody]

Thank you very much

 

[tiltrider1]

I could tell you more if I knew weather they were 375 hp or 435 hp.

 

[Xsbank]

Or 225?

 

[Misssjody]

Probably 435 since it is a turbo.

 

[Pau Hana]

Probably 435 since it is a turbo.

TAs came in 2 flavors- 375hp (preferred) and 435hp. The challenge with the 435hp is that most are/were run hard, which shortens their lifespan.

 

[tiltrider1]

TAs came in 2 flavors- 375hp (preferred) and 435hp. The challenge with the 435hp is that most are/were run hard, which shortens their lifespan.

Peter is correct. At 375 hp these engines were bulletproof. At 435 hp they tended to have significantly shorter lives.

 

[Alaskan Sea-Duction]

I have twin 3208T/A 375HP engines in my 48ft with over 3000hrs. Great engines. Keep the oil changes, do oil sample testing and check all hoses.

Last you long time.

 

[Taras]

My 51’ DeFever had twin 3208 TA’s. Had over 5000 hours when I sold it. Motors still going strong. They were 375 hp each. I really liked the motors and were efficient. A good mechanical survey by a certified Cat technician can tell you what shape the motors are in and during the sea trial, how “loaded” the engines are at various speeds.

 

[Mrwesson]

If you stay out of the turbo boost the 3208TA should last as long as the standard 3208 and burn the same amount of fuel.

Is that possible? I dont know but my best guess is that'll be around 1500rpm which should get you @ hull speed. You could detune them as well although I don't think it's worth it.

They are regarded among owners as good motors so I ignore the rest.