Cat 3196

doozie

Active Member
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Dec 6, 2007
553
MIDDLE RIVE MD.
Boat Info
46 sundancer 2001
Engines
3126B 450hp Cats
Looking at a 2000 boat with the CAT 3196 engines, any big issues i should be aware of, I will have Alban Cat do a full survey.

Bob
 
I know there are after-cooler issues. 3 different generations. 1 and 2 are no good, 3 still needs a service every 2-3 years. I am sure your Cat guy will fill you in.
 
I have 3196 Cats on my 01 480DB...and love them. Plenty of power. This is my second boat with Cats and I have not had a major issue with any of them. A few engines did have some after cooler and turbo stud problems, but my guess is those issues were taken care of long ago. A survey will show you what has been done, assuming a certified Cat mechanic did the work. You didn't mention hours on the Cats that you are looking at. As with most diesels, they are made to run and last a long time if serviced. Get the service records. Enjoy and good luck.
 
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They have 990 hours on them, I do plan on a cat dealer survey
 
I have over 3000 hours on my 3196's. I do standard maintenance, and I pressure test and have the coolers sent out every two years. I will say that I did develop an oil leak, but that can happen. Engines run strong and smooth.
 
Yeah, get the Cat records, it is likely the turbo studs and aftercoolers are replaced. Look for a 5147 stamped on one of the lifting ears on the aftercooler. Some boats needed the engine mounts replaced, as they were not quite beefy enough. I have had mine for two years, they surveyed clean, and run strong. With 900 hours, the things that were an issue on this engine should have shown up a long time ago. Every boat I have looked at for purchase with these engines all have the updated coolers. I would be shocked if this one does not. Good luck!

What model/size/brand are you looking at?
 
I know there are after-cooler issues. 3 different generations. 1 and 2 are no good, 3 still needs a service every 2-3 years. I am sure your Cat guy will fill you in.

To be fair, all diesels should have the AC’s cleaned and serviced every two years. Not just Cats.
 
As you can see in my picture that was my boat, attached is that boat today, Shrink wrap accident, not my fault. So insurance has been settled. Not the best scenario, did not really need another boat, I had some much invested in that boat, figured it would take me till i was done. So I may be changing brands, different style, currently looking at a 43 Tiara open. See where it winds up
PICT 1.jpg
 
As you can see in my picture that was my boat, attached is that boat today, Shrink wrap accident, not my fault. So insurance has been settled. Not the best scenario, did not really need another boat, I had some much invested in that boat, figured it would take me till i was done. So I may be changing brands, different style, currently looking at a 43 Tiara open. See where it winds upView attachment 79550
Sorry to hear of the loss of your 460. I liked what you had done with the interior flooring and figured something must have happened for you to give up that nice vessel. Good luck on your search.
 
Shrink wrapping the boat, some of the wrap may have melted fell on cushions or who knows, they patted out the melting part of the wrap, went to the other side to finish up, turned around it was a ball of flames. Happens more than most people think.
 

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