Engine Room Discussions

[Rtimmorris]

Hey, I'm new here and really need some help. I hope to go see a boat that has the twin 3126's. The boat is from 2000 and allegedly has about 570hrs on each. I am told that at about 540 hours a water leak appeared on one engine and it transpired that there was a crack in the block. Both engines were removed and overhauled together with the new block on one engine. Work was carried out in Spain by Cat service. I have seen receipt copies. Do Cat log centrally, any work done on these engines that can be checked? I am not a mechanic, and will have a Cat engineer check out the engines. However, prior to that I would like to see the boat, and maybe go for sea trial. What can I do, or check on these engines prior to engaging an engineer. Can I use a laser temp gun to check on running temperatures? Can I check the oil, or take a sample? Any ideas, suggestions. All suggestions will be greatly received. Thanks, Tim.

[njc1979]

In short to answer your question- Yes, there is a central service reporting referred to as SIMS (Service Information Management System...if I recall.)  Any dealer or CAT agency can access this data by the serial number of the engines.  However, the real question is if the servicing dealer actually input a record of their repairs.  Some dealers are very strict and will input everything others only major repairs and such.  I would contact your local dealer and ask them to check the SIMS on each serial number.  This will accomplish a few things: 1- It will get you the service history you desire, 2- It will show any outstanding service updates to the engines.  

Addtionally, I would recommend you pay for a PAR Test on the engines.  It is a comprehensive analysis of the engines and application and is a great tool for the buyer use in seeing if the vessel is right for you.  

Hope this points you in the right direction.  Check with your local dealer and go from there.

Regards,

Nick C.