Block heaters required in 2000 560 Sedan (CAT 3406)?

[jjones770]

Hi. Looking to purchase a 2000 560 Sedan with 3406 CAT's. My reasearch shows these to be pretty reliable motors with no significant issues. My question has to do with block heaters. I had them in my last boat (98' 500 DA) and I had to use them any time the temp dropped below about 70F. Those 6v92 Detroits simply would not start if the blocks were below about 65F. I would like to know if this a necessity with the CAT's as well or is it more for smoke control than anything else. We boat year round on Lake Lanier, GA and I would like to avoid runnning block heaters all winter if possible. The odd thing is we are also considering a 480 Sedan with QSM11 Cummins and they don't have block heaters at all???

 

[OldSkool]

The CATS should be fine down to freezing. You shouldn't need them in your area at all. I'm surprised the Detroit’s needed them. The 2000 most likely has tier 2 engines so some smoke may be present on cold start but should clear up quickly. This may happen even with block heaters.