CAT 3408 Engine is Still the Best for Your Backup Power Generator (Specs Inside)

History of CAT 3408

Caterpillar, Inc. has a long history of manufacturing high quality machines that perform reliably for years, including the CAT 3408. The engine, produced from the 1970s until around 1985, was marketed as multipurpose, and it can be seen used in a multitude of settings, such as inside yachts, ships, loaders, trucks, and backup generators. Originally, the CAT 3408 was seen as an expensive, top-of-the-line engine, and it quickly became popular with those needing a powerful engine. 

To this day, you can find good quality, working CAT 3408 engines for sale — a testament to its durability. The engine has a lifetime running hour estimate of around 16,000 hours (to put it in perspective, that’s just under two years) of non-stop usage. Caterpillar, Inc. still produces original equipment manufacturer, or OEM, parts for the CAT 3408 that are readily available if repairs or servicing is needed. This shows that Caterpillar knows that their machines are effective for years to come!

Since Caterpillar, Inc. no longer produces CAT 3408 engines, it is likely that you will be looking to purchase a used engine. The term “used” may cause some to turn up their nose, but if you are looking for something to power a commercial backup generator, you know that newer isn’t always better. Especially considering the CAT 3408’s value and remarkable running time, it is a fantastic engine to buy used. The price for a used CAT 3408 varies greatly on the condition of the engine, availability, and seller, so be sure to do your research and shop around for the best bang for your buck.

Specs of CAT 3408

Diesel Internal Combustion Engine

The CAT 3408 is a diesel internal combustion engine, which uses compression to produce extremely high heat that causes the combustion of the diesel fuel. 

Cylinders

Typically, the number of cylinders in an engine directly correlates to the power it can produce. The CAT 3408 engine has eight cylinders.

Electric Power Produced

The CAT 3408 can generate a maximum electrical power of 266 kilowatts (kW). 

Horsepower of CAT 3408

One unit of horsepower is equal to 550 foot pounds per minute, and the CAT 3408 can generate between 447 to 520 horsepower. This heavy duty power production is a big reason that the CAT 3408 is a popular choice for backup generators in job sites and industrial work.

CAT 3408 Displacement

Engine displacement measures the cylinder volume swept by all of the pistons of a piston engine, excluding the combustion chambers. Displacement is used to measure the size of an engine, which often correlates to the power it can produce. The CAT 3408 engine has a displacement of 18 litres.

Turbocharger of CAT 3408

Internal combustion engines must use oxygen in order to mix with the fuel and create combustion. Many diesel internal combustion engines can use the regular flow of outside air, but the CAT 3408 employs an impressive mechanism called a turbocharger, which draws large amounts of air into the engine’s cylinders, allowing for more combustion and more power.

Fuel Injection

The CAT 3408 uses a specialized system in order to funnel the diesel fuel from the tank to the cylinders, called an electronically controlled unit injector, or HEUI. It works by drawing diesel fuel out of the storage tank with a pump that creates varying amounts of pressure. The fuel then goes through a filter, a water separator, then a heating unit, then finally, to the cylinders.

Maintenance Tips for the CAT 3408

To give your CAT 3408 a longer life and proper functioning, you should get it regularly serviced and follow these maintenance tips. 

Keeping the Engine Cool

A functional cooling system is essential for preventing overheating in the CAT 3408 engine. Maintain an effective cooling system and avoid engine damage by routinely checking and cleaning the radiators, hoses, and cooling system.

Inspection and Cleaning of Air Filters

When it comes to keeping dust and debris out of the engine, the air filters are very important. To ensure optimum airflow and guard against engine damage, check and clean these air filters on a regular basis.

Regular Servicing 

The manufacturer provides a comprehensive maintenance plan for the CAT 3408 engine. To maintain optimum performance and avoid any possible issues, it is necessary that you follow this timeline. Regular maintenance consists of system check-ups, belt and hose inspections, and oil and filter replacements.

Tightening the Connections

Make sure that you regularly check all fuel and electrical wiring for corrosion or loosening. As needed, adjust or repair connections for continued maximum efficiency.

Regular Monitoring of Fluid Levels

Check the levels of all engine fluids, including fuel, coolant, and oil, on a regular basis. The lifetime and performance of the engine depend on having the right fluid levels. If any of the levels are low, restore them as per the manufacturer’s instructions.

So why is the CAT 3408 still the best engine for a backup power generator?

Like your grandpa always said, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it! The CAT 3408 is a proven performer with a great track record. The eight-cylinder engine boasts 447-520 horsepower, 266 kW of electrical power, and a turbocharger, which means it is sure to tackle whatever size load you throw at it. This power can be multiplied when used in conjunction with other generators on the same system. Additionally, the CAT 3408 is very versatile and can be used in a multitude of settings, such as construction, mining, oil, power plants, and more.

Whatever your backup power needs, the CAT 3408 engine should be your first choice as a generator engine. If you have any questions about purchasing one, give our industry professionals at Swift Equipment Solutions a call at +1-866-571-0044 or email us at sales@swiftequipment.com.

Frequently Asked Questions about CAT 3408

Q1.What kind of engine is the CAT 3408?

The CAT 3408 is a high-powered diesel internal combustion engine. It is well suited for many types of work, but is especially good used inside a backup power generator because of its reliability. 

Q2.What are the specs on the CAT 3408 Engine?

The CAT 3408 engine has:

Diesel internal combustion engine , 8 cylinders , 447-520 horsepower , 266 kW electrical power, Displacement of 18 liters , Turbocharger , HEUI fuel injector & 16,000 running hours.

Q3.What makes the CAT 3408 engine a good option to use inside a backup power generator?

The CAT 3408 engine is a powerful, heavy duty engine that is extremely versatile. It is a proven performer with a wonderful track record. Though it is not currently in production, Caterpillar, Inc. still offers OEM parts to ensure that the engine remains in good, working order. Additionally, it boasts around 16,000 running hours which means it will always be there on standby for your backup power needs.

Q4. Why are cat engines so reliable?

Caterpillar components are incredibly dependable since they are built of high-quality materials. In contrast to some of the other suppliers, Caterpillar guarantees the long-term durability of its parts. In fact, a lot of people prefer Caterpillar parts because they are durable.

Q5. What is the life expectancy of a 3408 cat engine?

The expected life expectancy of the 3408 is 16,000 hours, roughly two years of continuous use. Unquestionably, the 3408 CAT is a very adaptable engine that finds numerous applications in mining, oil & gas, construction, generating power, and backup generators.