3116 cats: Recommendations on optimum operating rpm(s)

[Michael and Jeanne V2]

Folks,

My wife and I are new to this boat and to diesel power too. We have twin 3116 engines with turbochargers ; each rated at 300 hp.

Is there an optimum RPM that these engines run best at? So far we have been making short transits at 1300 to 1500 RPM and the boat handles well and consumption seems very reasonble. Is that OK or will the engines load up at that RPM. Do I need to exercise the turbos by running faster from time to time?

Your thoughts and comments please.

 

[fwebster]

Nope...........you aren't hurting anything, but you are boating cheap with about a 5.0 gph fuel burn at that clip.

For pleasure craft use, you can run the engines at up to 2400 rpm sustained without overloading them. Anything under that is ok and saves fuel and cuts down noise.

However, you will find that the Cats (and all other engines as well) have some sweet spots where they just seem to like to run. Mine like cruising at 2200-2250 and like 1400 for crowded conditions or short runs when we aren't in a hurry.

 

[Michael and Jeanne V2]

Frank,

Thanks... going slow makes the Captain happy... she can enjoy the sun more.

Cheers,
MV2

 

[douglee25]

Nice looking boat Mike.

Doug