Overhauled Caterpillar 3408 marine diesel engine

The Caterpillar 3408 is one of the most reliable and durable diesel engines in the marine and industrial power generation industry. Trusted by tugboat operators, offshore support vessels, fishing boats, and power generation facilities worldwide, the 3408 delivers exceptional torque, fuel efficiency, and longevity.

At Diesel Power Holland, we’ve just completed a comprehensive overhaul on a Caterpillar 3408 DI-TA marine auxiliary engine with SR4 turbocharger configuration, paired with a 584 frame generator (6D prefix). This unit has been inspected, reconitioned, and tested to meet OEM specifications — and it’s now available immediately from our Moerdijk stock.

Whether you operate offshore drilling equipment, marine support vessels, or industrial power generation systems, a professionally-overhauled Caterpillar 3408 offers proven reliability at a fraction of the cost of new equipment replacement.

What is the Caterpillar 3408?

The Caterpillar 3408 diesel engine is a legendary 8-cylinder, 4-stroke naturally-aspirated or turbocharged powerplant engineered for heavy-duty marine and industrial applications. Originally developed for the U.S. Navy and subsequently adopted worldwide, the 3408 has earned a reputation for:

• Legendary durability: thousands of units operating 25,000+ hours
• High torque at low RPM: ideal for marine propulsion and power generation
• Fuel efficiency: lower operating costs over engine life
• Worldwide parts availability: supported by Caterpillar dealers and specialists globally
• Modular configuration: available in naturally-aspirated, turbocharged (SR4), and intercooled variants

Typical 3408 Specifications:

• Displacement: 33.4 liters (2,037 cubic inches)
• Bore/Stroke: 130 × 160 mm
• Number of cylinders: 8 (in-line)
• Fuel type: Marine diesel (ultra-low sulfur compatible)
• Typical power range: 600–750 HP (depending on turbo/intercool configuration)
• Typical torque: 2,000–2,500 ft-lbs at 800–1,200 RPM
• Weight: Approximately 2,800–3,200 kg (engine only)

The DI-TA designation indicates Direct Injection, Turbocharged, A-configuration, optimized for marine auxiliary and power generation applications. The SR4 turbocharger boosts power and efficiency compared to naturally-aspirated variants.

Why Choose This Caterpillar 3408?

Immediately Available from Stock

Unlike dealers who require 8–16 weeks for new engine delivery, this overhauled Caterpillar 3408 is in stock now. Your project timeline starts immediately — no waiting, no uncertainty.

Complete Marine Auxiliary Solution

This unit includes a matched generator set — the 584 frame alternator with 6D prefix is optimized for marine power generation. You get a complete, tested, marine-ready power package.

Proven Caterpillar Reliability

The 3408 is one of the most trusted marine diesel engines ever built. Thousands operate in the North Sea, Mediterranean, and globally. When properly maintained, a 3408 delivers 10,000+ additional hours after overhaul.

Significant Cost Savings vs. New Equipment

A new Caterpillar 3408 marine generator set costs $150,000–$250,000+. This professionally-overhauled unit delivers 90% of the performance at 40–50% of the price. For vessel operators and industrial facilities managing tight budgets, this is unbeatable value.

OEM-Specification Rebuild

We don’t cut corners. Every component was rebuilt to Caterpillar original specifications using genuine Caterpillar parts or OEM-certified equivalents. The result is a marine engine that operates as reliably as a new unit.

Caterpillar 3408 Applications & Market

Marine Auxiliary Power

The 3408 is the gold standard for marine auxiliary power generation on:

• Tugboats & workboats: reliable, efficient power for deck equipment, ballast systems, and auxiliary functions
• Fishing vessels: provides stable power for freezing systems, navigation, and propulsion backup
• Offshore support vessels: critical power for drilling support, accommodation, and deck systems
• Research & expedition ships: trusted for extended operations in remote waters

Industrial & Stationary Power

Beyond marine, the 3408 excels in:

• Standby power generation: hospitals, data centers, telecommunications facilities
• Prime power: industrial facilities, mining operations, remote communities
• Drilling & production equipment: oil & gas, geothermal, mineral extraction
• Pump stations: water treatment, flood control, agricultural irrigation

Caterpillar 3408 FAQs

How long will a Caterpillar 3408 last after overhaul?

A properly-overhauled 3408 typically delivers 10,000–15,000+ additional operating hours. Lifespan depends on application, fuel quality, and maintenance.

Is this 3408 suitable for continuous prime power or only backup?

The DI-TA configuration with SR4 turbo is suitable for both auxiliary and prime power. It excels in auxiliary applications; for continuous 24/7 operation, consider the intercooled DI-SCAC variant.

Can I install this 3408 generator set myself?

Installation requires licensed marine engineers. DPH can provide technical documentation and support, but installation labor is your responsibility.

What warranty does DPH offer?

A comprehensive pre-delivery inspection and quality assurance report are included. Warranty terms are discussed during quotation based on your application.

How soon can you ship this unit?

It’s in stock now. Shipping timeline depends on logistics and your location — typically 2–4 weeks for international delivery once terms are finalized.

Can I finance or lease this engine?

Contact our sales team — we may be able to assist with payment arrangements for qualified buyers.