Caterpillar Opens the Order Board for the Cat® C8.7 Supercharged Diesel Engine
Fort Lauderdale, Florida – Caterpillar Marine is pleased to announce the availability of the Cat® C8.7 supercharged diesel engine. The electronically-controlled C8.7 is capable of delivering an impressive 650 MHP @ 2300 RPM while meeting EPA Tier 3, IMO 2, EU Stage IIIA and RCD emissions requirements. In addition to internal validation activities, the C8.7 recently completed field testing on three sportfish yachts, ranging from 48 to 55 feet, accumulating over 7500 hours. Customers can order the C8.7 from the global Cat dealer network.
“We’ve been incredibly pleased with the C8.7’s performance in the water during its comprehensive field testing,” Bruce Strupp, Caterpillar Marine Propulsion Solutions Manager noted. “Our customers have been asking for a high performing compact engine platform and the C8.7 exceeds expectations, notably in regards to its low-end and maximum torque capabilities.”
The C8.7’s sophisticated fuel delivery system allows the use of a radial, belt driven supercharger in addition to a conventional turbocharger; this feature eliminates smoke and reduces lugging, while delivering phenomenal low-end torque and impressive fuel economy. Once the supercharger is no longer needed as the turbo takes over the boost function, an electromagnetic clutch disengages the supercharger to avoid becoming a parasitic load and allows the turbo to provide the maximum permissible boost pressure. This renders the new engine impervious to turbocharger lag and allows rapid transient response throughout the engine’s operating range. Maintenance and operation of the C8.7 is also simple thanks to left and right hand service options and an electric fuel priming pump to minimize both downtime and effort.
Along with traditional shaftline installations, the C8.7 is also designed to be integrated with the Cat Three60 Pod 650. The new Cat Three60 Pod 650 revolutionizes docking and slow-speed maneuvering for diesel-powered yachts. Available in fall 2015, the Three60 Pod 650 is specifically designed to be remarkably easy for customers to learn, with easy ‘push, twist and go’ maneuvering. The C8.7 can also be used with Caterpillar’s Three60 Precision Control maneuvering system.
A Cat C8.7 marine propulsion engine with the new Cat Three60 Pod 650 will be on display at the Caterpillar booth at the 2014 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. Stop by Engine Tent #1213 to visit with our yachting experts. Follow us on our new Facebook page and Twitter using #CatatFLIBS for up-to-the-minute information on Caterpillar Marine.
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