Caterpillarengine - marinemarine engine

Caterpillar D333A

Maintenance schedule, common problems & OEM parts breakdown

The Caterpillar D333A is a mechanical, naturally aspirated inline-six diesel engine built for marine propulsion, generator-set, and industrial mechanical-drive duty rather than as a mobile machine in its own right. It runs a 114.3 mm x 139.7 mm (4.5 in x 5.5 in) bore and stroke for roughly 8.6 liters (525 cu in) of displacement, with a dry engine block weighing on the order of 900-1,000 kg (2,000-2,200 lb) before accessories. It belongs to the D330/D333 mechanical-diesel family that Caterpillar produced through the 1960s, with the D333A/B generation running until roughly 1968 before giving way to the larger-bore D333C. Marine installations were offered raw-water-cooled or keel-cooled, paired with a reverse/reduction marine gear, while industrial and genset versions used radiator or heat-exchanger cooling depending on the rating.

The main change across the family was mechanical: the D333A/B generation used a 4.5 in bore and belt- or engine-driven water pump arrangements, while the D333C that followed increased bore to 4.75 in (120.7 mm) and moved to a gear-driven jacket water pump, a transitional step toward the 3304/3306 engines that eventually absorbed this platform. Horsepower ratings within the D330/D333 family spanned naturally aspirated, turbocharged, and turbocharged-aftercooled configurations depending on application and duty rating, so output varies by build rather than by a single figure. In today's used and parts market, the D333A matters because it is a fully mechanical engine with no ECM, no electronic governor, and no emissions aftertreatment - a draw for owners of older commercial and pleasure craft, tugs, and standby gensets who want to keep a running mechanical diesel in service. Dealer counter stock is thin at this age; keeping one running increasingly depends on remachined cores, rebuilt injection components, and machine-shop work rather than new parts.

Below: full specifications, fluids & capacities, the factory service schedule, common service parts, verified fault codes, what owners discuss, attachment guidance, the complete assembly directory, and a serial-number reference. Complete parts lists with full OEM part numbers, exploded diagrams, quantities, and fitment data are available free in Heavy Parts AI.

Caterpillar D333A specifications

Engine

Engine model / generationD333A, inline 6-cylinder, 4-stroke mechanical diesel. Part of the D330/D333 family that preceded the larger-bore D333C generation (later carried into the 3306). Marine version built on the same base block used in period construction-equipment and generator-set applications, dressed with marine cooling and reduction gear.
Bore x stroke114.3 mm x 139.7 mm (4-1/2 in x 5-1/2 in)
Displacement8.6 L (525 cu in)
AspirationNaturally aspirated in base form. Turbocharged units were also built on the same 8.6 L block — do not confuse turbo components or ratings with the later, larger-bore D333C 10.5 L block.
Gross/net powerNo confirmed marine propulsion rating documented for this exact configuration. Same-bore engine in period construction equipment (wheel loader, motor grader) carried ratings around 104-112 kW (140-150 hp) at 1900-2200 rpm — reference only, not a confirmed marine plate rating. Verify against the engine's actual rating plate or dealer records.
Emissions tierPre-regulation mechanical diesel. No emissions certification tier applies (predates EPA/Tier standards).

Weights

Bare (long block) engine weightApprox. 907-998 kg (2,000-2,200 lb) dry for a complete long block. This figure does not include marine reduction gear, heat exchanger, or other marine dress components.
Marine-dressed operating weightNot documented in available service literature — varies with reduction-gear ratio and cooling package. Verify with dealer or installation manual.

Dimensions

Overall length/width/heightNot documented in available service literature for the marine-dressed configuration. Verify with dealer or the marine installation drawing for the specific reduction-gear and heat-exchanger package fitted.

Performance

Rated engine speedNot documented as a confirmed marine rating. Same-family industrial/vehicle applications of this bore ran rated speeds in the 1900-2350 rpm range depending on duty cycle and application — treat as reference only.

Service capacities (summary)

Engine oil (sump)Approx. 23-26 L (6-7 US gal). Figures vary with oil pan and filter configuration across applications; treat as a range, not a fixed figure.
Cooling systemNot documented — marine installations use a heat exchanger/keel-cooling package sized to the vessel, not a fixed engine-only figure. Verify with dealer or installation manual.
Fuel tankNot applicable as an engine-level spec — marine fuel tank capacity is vessel-installed and set by the boat builder, not the engine manufacturer.

Values vary by configuration, region, and serial range — confirm against your machine before planning transport or lifts.

D333A fluids & capacities

SystemCapacityRecommended fluid
Engine crankcase (with filter)approx. 25-26.5 L (6.5-7 US gal) to the full mark; exact figure varies by oil pan and filter arrangement across D333A serial-prefix ranges — treat as approximate and confirm dipstick full mark on the specific unitCaterpillar heavy-duty diesel engine oil, single-grade: SAE 30 for temperate ambient conditions; SAE 10W for cold-weather starting below roughly 0C (32F); SAE 40 for sustained high-ambient service above roughly 32C (90F)
Cooling system (jacket / fresh-water circuit)not documented for this exact configuration in available sources — fill volume depends on whether the installation uses a keel cooler or a heat-exchanger/raw-water setup; verify against the hull builder's cooling schematic for the specific vesselCaterpillar-recommended full-strength ethylene-glycol base antifreeze/coolant with a supplemental coolant additive, mixed per era-correct heavy-duty diesel cooling practice; the raw-water side (keel cooler or heat exchanger) runs untreated sea or lake water and is separate from the coolant fill
Fuel tanknot specified by the engine operation and maintenance manual — marine fuel tank capacity is set by the vessel/hull builder, not the engine itselfCaterpillar-recommended No. 2-D diesel fuel or equivalent distillate fuel meeting the engine's fuel specification
Marine gear / reduction-reverse gear (if fitted)not documented for a D333A-specific pairing — the reduction/reverse gear is typically a separate manufacturer's unit sized to the installation; consult that unit's own oil-level chart for its fill volumeCaterpillar-recommended transmission/drive-train oil (heavy-duty gear-oil equivalent), viscosity graded to ambient temperature per the gear unit's own chart
Grease (chassis and linkage points, spec only)spec only — no fill capacity appliesCaterpillar-recommended multipurpose grease, NLGI No. 2 consistency, for general lubrication points

Capacities are refill values from factory literature — always fill to the dipstick/sight gauge, not the number.

Caterpillar D333A maintenance schedule

Service intervalTasks
Every 50 h
  • Check engine oil level with the dipstick before starting.
  • Check coolant level in the expansion tank or heat exchanger header tank.
  • Drain water and sediment from the primary fuel filter/water separator.
  • Inspect the raw-water strainer basket and clear debris before running.
  • Walk around and check for fuel, oil, coolant, and exhaust leaks.
  • Check water pump and charging alternator drive belt tension.
Every 250 h
  • Change engine oil and replace the lubricating oil filter element.
  • Pull and inspect the raw-water pump impeller; replace if vanes are cracked or worn.
  • Clean and inspect the fuel strainer element; replace as needed.
  • Check and adjust water pump and fan belt tension.
  • Lubricate governor linkage and throttle control points per the OMM chart.
  • Inspect zinc anodes in the heat exchanger and raw-water circuit; replace if more than half consumed.
Every 500 h
  • Replace the secondary fuel filter element.
  • Check valve lash on intake and exhaust valves; adjust to tune-up spec if out of range.
  • Check condition and concentration of the cooling system corrosion inhibitor; add as needed.
  • Check marine gear (reverse/reduction gear) oil level and inspect for water intrusion.
  • Inspect precombustion chamber-to-head sealing for exhaust leakage or carbon blow-by.
  • Check the crankcase breather and clean if restricted.
Every 1,000 h
  • Adjust valve lash to full tune-up specification for intake and exhaust clearance.
  • Check and reset fuel injection pump timing per tune-up spec.
  • Pull fuel injection valves; clean, test spray pattern, and check opening pressure.
  • Check cylinder compression or blow-by to flag early ring and liner wear.
  • Inspect the water pump shaft seal and bearing for leakage or play.
  • Check flexible engine mounts and marine gear coupling alignment.
Every 2,000 h
  • Inspect precombustion chambers for erosion or burn-through; replace as needed.
  • Drain coolant and inspect wet cylinder liners for cavitation pitting where access allows.
  • Replace the raw-water pump impeller and inspect the pump housing and bearing for wear.
  • Sample oil for wear metals and check main/rod bearing clearance where inspection access allows.
  • Inspect the vibration damper, if fitted, for rubber deterioration or slippage.
  • Check and re-torque cylinder head bolts if called for in the tune-up chart for this serial range.
Every 6,000 h
  • Schedule a top-end overhaul: pull cylinder heads and inspect valves, seats, and precombustion chambers.
  • Inspect pistons, rings, and wet liners for wear beyond tune-up limits; bore, hone, or sleeve as needed.
  • Check the camshaft, followers, and timing gear train for wear.
  • Overhaul or exchange the fuel injection pump and injection valves as a set.
  • Treat this interval as condition-based for this engine generation; confirm against oil analysis and compression trends rather than a fixed factory figure.
Every 12,000 h
  • Perform a major inframe overhaul covering crankshaft, main/rod bearings, liners, and pistons.
  • Inspect the cylinder block for main bearing bore wear and line-bore if out of tolerance.
  • Overhaul the raw-water pump, jacket water pump, and marine gear as a set.
  • Pressure-test the heat exchanger core and renew end-cap zinc anodes.
  • No fixed factory hour figure is documented for this engine generation; use oil analysis and compression trends, and verify with a Cat dealer for your serial prefix.

Servicing the D333A beyond the schedule

Predictive Maintenance & Fluid Analysis

Run periodic oil sampling to catch wear-metal trends before bearing failure - this mechanical engine has no ECM or onboard diagnostics, so lab analysis is the main early-warning tool available. Test coolant for corrosion-inhibitor depletion; low inhibitor accelerates wet-liner cavitation pitting, a known wear mode on this bore and stroke. Track the raw-water inlet-to-outlet temperature rise across the heat exchanger to catch early fouling before it affects operating temperature. Watch zinc anode consumption rate - fast wasting points to a stray-current or bonding problem worth chasing before it reaches the block or marine gear.

Corrective & Common Repairs

Raw-water pump impeller wear and shaft-seal weeping are the most common corrective jobs on D333A marine installs; inspect at every service interval. Precombustion chamber erosion shows up as hard starting and white smoke - replace the chamber instead of chasing injection timing. Exhaust elbow and manifold corrosion from raw-water mixing is a recurring wet-exhaust failure point; check for pinholes and salt scale. Governor linkage wear causes speed hunting; clean and re-bush before condemning the governor. Marine gear output seals leak with age; reseal at the first sign of bilge oil.

Overhaul & Rebuild Points

Blocks are now decades old, so expect to line-bore for main bearing wear and reface the head at a full overhaul. Wet liners often need sleeving or oversizing rather than simple honing at this age; check the liner counterbore for corrosion during teardown. Injection pumps and injection valves rarely come off a dealer shelf anymore, so budget for remachined cores or shop-tested used units instead of new replacements. Precombustion chambers and valve seats are routine wear items at every rebuild. Crankshaft regrind is common on engines run long past their last full teardown.

Seasonal & Environment Servicing

Before haul-out or lay-up, drain the raw-water side of the heat exchanger and jacket to prevent freeze-cracking in cold climates; this engine carries no factory antifreeze protection on the raw-water circuit. Fog cylinders through the intake for lay-ups longer than a season. Replace zinc anodes before recommissioning, since a season of galvanic wasting is normal in salt water. Clear the raw-water strainer and check the seacock before first start. Re-check flexible engine mounts and marine gear alignment after any haul-out, since hull flex during blocking can load the coupling.

D333A common service parts

Part numberPart
9M-0530Oil Filter AssemblyCheck fitment →
4M-8207Oil Filter AssemblyCheck fitment →
7M-7672Oil Filter AssemblyCheck fitment →

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D333A fault codes & troubleshooting

CodeMeaningLikely causeWhat to do
Low Oil Pressure ShutdownOil pressure contactor switch closes when crankcase oil pressure drops below the safe minimum, signaling the fuel rack shutoff solenoid to stop the engineWorn oil pump, blocked pump pickup, stuck oil cooler bypass valve, low oil level, or a contactor switch out of adjustmentCheck oil level and condition first, inspect the pump pickup and cooler bypass valve, then verify the contactor switch setting before resetting and restarting
High Water Temperature ShutdownWater temperature contactor switch closes on excess coolant temperature, signaling the fuel rack shutoff solenoid to stop the engine; the switch self-resets once the engine coolsLow coolant level, restricted heat exchanger or radiator flow, failed belt-driven water pump, or a stuck thermostatLet the engine cool, check coolant level and raw-water/heat exchanger flow, inspect the water pump drive belt and thermostat before restarting
Overspeed ShutdownOverspeed contactor switch, mounted on the tachometer drive, closes when engine rpm exceeds the governor's safe limit and signals the fuel rack shutoff solenoidGovernor linkage malfunction, sudden loss of generator load, or fuel rack sticking toward the fuel-on positionInspect governor linkage and fuel rack for free movement, confirm load conditions, then manually reset the overspeed switch button before restarting
General Safety Shutdown (single red panel lamp)Any one of the shutdown contactors - oil pressure, water temperature, overspeed, or a remote manual switch - energized the fuel rack shutoff solenoid; the cranking panel shows one common red lamp for any causeAny of the low oil pressure, high water temperature, or overspeed conditions above, or an operator-initiated remote shutdownCheck each contactor and gauge individually (oil pressure, water temperature, tachometer) since the lamp alone does not identify which condition tripped
Overcrank / Failure to StartAutomatic start-stop cranking cycle fails to start the engine within its allotted cranking attempts and cranking haltsInterrupted fuel supply, weak starting batteries, fouled injectors, or air in the fuel systemCheck the fuel pressure switch circuit and battery condition, bleed the fuel system, and confirm starter engagement before attempting another start
Fuel Pressure Switch LockoutFuel pressure switch in the shutoff circuit blocks re-energizing the fuel rack shutoff solenoid (keeping the engine in run) unless fuel pressure is present, guarding against a restart with no fuel deliveryFuel transfer pump failure, clogged fuel filter, or air in the fuel linesCheck primary fuel pump output and filter condition before attempting to reset and restart

Codes and remedies are general guidance for this model family — always confirm with diagnostic tooling and your dealer before major repairs.

D333A attachments & work tools

Work tool / implement attachments

No work-tool or implement attachment ecosystem applies to this model. The D333A is a stationary/marine diesel engine (6-cylinder, roughly 114 mm/4.5 in bore x 140 mm/5.5 in stroke), not a mobile machine with a hydraulic quick-coupler or work-tool circuit. It does not accept buckets, forks, grapples, augers, or other excavator/loader-style attachments. Treat any attachment-guide content for this identity as empty by design, not a research gap.

Marine propulsion driveline configuration

Where installed for shaft-drive propulsion, engines of this D333 family were paired with a separate marine reverse/reduction gear (clutch and reduction unit) rather than any work-tool interface. Documented reduction-gear pairings and ratios for this era of Cat marine engine vary by installation and are not confirmed specifically for the D333A; treat any specific ratio as unverified.

Auxiliary/genset power-take-off configuration

D333-family engines were also configured as diesel generator sets (engine coupled to a generator end) for ship-service or auxiliary power rather than propulsion. Power ratings cited in surviving listings for the broader D333 line vary widely (roughly 150 to 250 hp-class outputs depending on generator pairing and speed setting), and none could be confirmed as specific to the D333A sub-variant versus its D333/D333B/D333C siblings, so treat any generator kW/RPM figure as approximate and configuration-dependent.

Cooling system configuration

Marine diesels of this vintage and class were typically offered with either heat-exchanger (fresh-water) cooling or raw-water/keel cooling depending on vessel installation. No source ties a specific cooling configuration to the D333A by name, so this is noted as a plausible era-typical option rather than a confirmed factory offering.

All D333A assemblies by section

Every catalogued assembly group for the Caterpillar D333A. Open an assembly to preview the parts inside — full OEM part numbers are available in Heavy Parts AI.

Attachments
4l8467 Air Cleaner Cap Group
5l2130 Air Filter Indicator Group
7l7416 Air Filter Indicator Group--Replaces 7l6784
7l6784 Air Filter Indicator Group--Replaces 5l2130
3l517 Air Motor
3l7506 Air Starting Motor Assembly
5l2233 Air Starting Arrangement
3L***79Fuel Priming Pump Group1
5L***32Air Starting Motor Group1
5L***33Air Starting Arrangement1
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5l2479 Air Starting Arrangement
3L***79Fuel Priming Pump Group1
5L***79Air Starting Arrangement1
5L***80Air Starting Motor Group1
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4l1806 Air Starting Arrangement
3L***79Fuel Priming Pump Group1
4L***02Air Starting Motor Group1
4L***06Air Starting Arrangement1
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7l8425 Air Starting Motor Assembly
5l2231 Air Starting Motor Assembly
5l2232 Air Starting Motor Group
7l8250 Air Starting Motor Group
4l1802 Air Starting Motor Group
5l2480 Air Starting Motor Group
3l6314 Alarm Contactor Group--1/4" Pipe Thread--Type 1
3l6314 Alarm Contactor Group--1/4" Pipe Thread--Type 2
5l1243 Generator Assembly--32 Volt, 60 Ampere--Type 1
5l1243 Alternator Assembly--32 Volt, 60 Ampere--Type 2
4l7805 Alternator Assembly--12 Volt, 60 Ampere
5l6468 Alternator Assembly--24 Volt, 60 Ampere
5l6223 Alternator Group--32 Volt, 60 Ampere--Type 2
6l2226 Alternator Group--12 Volt, 60 Ampere--Type 2
5l6223 Alternator Group--32 Volt, 60 Ampere--Type 1
6l2227 Alternator Group--24 Volt, 60 Ampere--Type 2
6l2227 Alternator Group--24 Volt, 60 Ampere--Type 1
6l2226 Alternator Group--12 Volt, 60 Ampere--Type 1
3h756 Ammeter Group--Pilot House
4l1799 Auxiliary Drive Group--1 : 1 Ratio--Type 2
4l1799 Auxiliary Drive Group--1 : 1 Ratio--Type 1
1l5664 Battery Group--24 Volt, 120 Ampere Hours
1l5662 Battery Group--32 Volt--120 Ampere Hours
1h1342 Battery Group--32 Volt--200 Ampere Hours
1l5663 Battery Group--30 Volt--170 Ampere Hours
1h1341 Battery Group--24 Volt--200 Ampere Hours
9f6028 Battery Group--24 Volt, 170 Ampere Hours
5l9326 Bellows Coupling Group
4l1800 Bilge Pump And Auxiliary Drive Arrangement
4L***99Auxiliary Drive Group1
4L***00Bilge Pump & Auxiliary Drive Arrangement1
4L***03Bilge Pump Group1
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4l1803 Bilge Pump Group
5l8091 Air Cleaner Cap Group
5L***91Cap Group-Air Cleaner; Air Cleaner Cap Group1
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2f8223 Clutch Assembly
5l5898 Direct Electric Starting Arrangement--12 Volt
3L***79Fuel Priming Pump Group1
5L***97Motor And Wiring Group1
5L***98Direct Electric Starting Arrangement1
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5l5869 Direct Electric Starting Arrangement--12 Volt
3L***79Fuel Priming Pump Group1
5L***68Motor And Wiring Group1
5L***69Direct Electric Starting Arrangement1
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5l4494 Direct Electric Starting Arrangement--32 Volt
3L***79Fuel Priming Pump Group1
5L***93Motor And Wiring Group1
5L***94Direct Electric Starting Arrangement1
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5l7431 Dual Panel Group--24 Or 32 Volt
5l7430 Dual Panel Group--12 Volt
6l2101 Dual Panel Group--Mechanical Instruments--12 Volt
6l2103 Dual Panel Group--Electrical Instruments--24 Or 32 Volt
5l9893 Dual Panel Group--12 Volt
6l2102 Dual Panel Group--Electrical Instruments--12 Volt
5l7660 Exhaust Elbow Group--4 Inch Dry
5l7661 Exhaust Elbow Group--5 Inch Dry
5L***61Elbow Group-Exhaust; Exhaust Elbow Group1
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5l4491 Motor And Wiring Group--32 Volt
5L***91Electric Motor And Wiring Group1
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3l9118 Direct Electric Starting Arrangement--24 Volt
3L***79Fuel Priming Pump Group1
3L***52Print Of Wiring Diagram1
3L***18Electric Starting Arrangement1
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5l4492 Electric Starting Arrangement--32 Volt
3L***79Fuel Priming Pump Group1
5L***91Electric Motor And Wiring Group1
5L***92Electric Starting Arrangement1
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5l2489 Electric Starting Arrangement--24 Volt
3L***79Fuel Priming Pump Group1
5L***89Electric Starting Arrangement1
5L***90Electric Starting Motor Group1
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3l5683 Electric Starting Motor Assembly--24 Volt
5l4169 Electric Starting Motor Assembly--12 Volt--Part 2 Of 2
5L***69Electric Starting Motor Assembly1
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5l4513 Electric Starting Motor Assembly--32 Volt--Part 2 Of 2
5L***13Electric Starting Motor Assembly1
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5l5867 Electric Starting Motor Assembly--12 Volt--Part 1 Of 2
5L***67Electric Starting Motor Assembly1
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5l4169 Electric Starting Motor Assembly--12 Volt--Part 1 Of 2
5L***69Electric Starting Motor Assembly1
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5l4513 Electric Starting Motor Assembly--32 Volt--Part 1 Of 2
5L***13Electric Starting Motor Assembly1
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5l4171 Electric Starting Motor Assembly--32 Volt--Part 1 Of 2
5L***71Electric Starting Motor Assembly1
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5l5867 Electric Starting Motor Assembly--12 Volt--Part 2 Of 2
5L***67Electric Starting Motor Assembly1
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5l4171 Electric Starting Motor Assembly--32 Volt--Part 2 Of 2
5L***71Electric Starting Motor Assembly1
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5l2490 Electric Starting Motor Group--Type 1
5l2490 Electric Starting Motor Group--24 Volt--Type 2
4l2354 Electric Tachometer Group--Remote Mounted
3L***12Tachometer Drive Group1
4L***53Tachometer Group-Electric; Electric Tachometer Group1
4L***54Electric Tachometer Group1
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5l8669 Exhaust Elbow Group--6 Inch
5l8669 Exhaust Elbow Group
5l8668 Exhaust Elbow Group--5 Inch
5l8667 Exhaust Elbow Group--4 Inch
2l774 Exhaust Fitting Group
4l3826 Exhaust Fitting Group--Tapped
5l9473 Exhaust Fitting Group--6 Inch
4l3614 Exhaust Fitting Group
4l3827 Exhaust Fitting Group--Flexible
8h4681 Primary Fuel Filter Group
8H***81Filter Group-Primary Fuel; Primary Fuel Filter Group1
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5l8601 Exhaust Flange Group--6 Inch
5L***01Flange Group-Exhaust; Exhaust Flange Group1
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5l8592 Exhaust Flange Group--4 Inch
5l8717 Flexible Exhaust Connections Group
5L***17Flexible Exhaust Connection Group1
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3l6641 Flexible Fuel Lines Group
3l4837 Front Auxiliary Drive Group--Crankshaft
3l9198 Front Power Take-Off Group--1 : 1 Ratio--Engine Rotation
5l6259 Front Power Take-Off Group--1 : 1 Ratio--Engine Rotation
3l6579 Fuel Priming Pump Group--Type 1
3l6579 Fuel Priming Pump Group--Type 3
3l6579 Fuel Priming Pump Group--Type 2
3l4326 Generator--12 Volt, 35 Ampere
4l2113 Generator--24 Volt, 18 Ampere
3l5998 Generator--12 Volt, 30 Ampere
4l2110 Generator Arrangement--12 Volt, 30 Ampere
4L***99Auxiliary Drive Group1
4L***03Generator Group1
4L***10Generator Arrangement1
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4l2111 Generator Arrangement--24 Volt, 18 Ampere
4L***99Auxiliary Drive Group1
4L***70Generator Group1
4L***11Generator Arrangement1
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5l5751 Generator Assembly--32 Volt, 18 Ampere
4l3264 Generator--32 Volt, 18 Ampere
5l5750 Generator Assembly--12 Volt, 35 Ampere
5l6833 Generator Group--24 Volt, 18 Ampere--Type 2
5l6832 Generator Group--12 Volt, 35 Ampere
5l6832 Generator Group--12 Volt, 35 Ampere--Type 2
4l2070 Generator Group--24-Volt, 18 Ampere
5l6833 Generator Group--24 Volt, 18 Ampere--Type 1
4l1903 Generator Group--12 Volt, 30 Ampere
5l3141 Generator Group--12 Volt, 35 Ampere
5l6222 Generator Group--32 Volt, 18 Ampere--Type 1
5l6221 Generator Group--12 Volt, 35 Ampere
5l3304 Generator Group--32 Volt, 60 Ampere--Type 2
5l6226 Generator Group--32 Volt, 60 Ampere
5l3304 Generator Group--32 Volt, 60 Ampere--Type 1
5l6222 Generator Group--32 Volt, 18 Ampere--Type 2
5l3132 Generator Group--32 Volt, 18 Ampere
5l5689 Glow Plug Group--12 Volt--Type 1
6l6771 Glow Plug Group--24 Volt
4l3674 Glow Plug Group--24 Volt--Type 1
5l5690 Glow Plug Group--32 Volt--Type 1
5l5690 Glow Plug Group--32 Volt--Type 2
4l3674 Glow Plug Group--24 Volt--Type 2
6l6772 Glow Plug Group--32 Volt
4l3674 Glow Plug Group--24 Volt--Type 4
4l3674 Glow Plug Group--24 Volt--Type 3
6l6770 Glow Plug Group--12 Volt
5l5689 Glow Plug Group--12 Volt--Type 2
7f6899 Governor Control Group--Pilot House Mounted
3l6299 Governor Control Group--Positive Locking--R.H.
3l6307 Governor Control Group--Remote--R.H.
4l6805 Governor Control Group--Single Cable--R.H.
5l2518 Governor Control Group
4l6811 Governor Control Lever Group
4L***11Governor Control Lever Group; Governor Control Lever Group Shown Below1
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4l554 Governor Conversion Group
5l3032 Governor Force Compensator Group
5L***32Governor Force Compensator Group1
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4l7604 Control Handle Group
4L***04Handle Group-Control; Governor Control Handle Group1
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Hardware--Instrument Panel
6l1992 Heat Exchanger Assembly
5l3332 Heat Exchanger Assembly--Type 1
5l3333 Heat Exchanger Assembly--Type 2
5l7983 Heat Exchanger Assembly
2l4782 Heat Exchanger Assembly
5l3333 Heat Exchanger Assembly--Type 1
5l7864 Heat Exchanger Assembly
5l7982 Heat Exchanger Assembly
5l3332 Heat Exchanger Assembly--Type 2
Heat Exchanger Chart
4l2894 Heat Exchanger Connections Group
4L***94Heat Exchanger Connections Group1
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5l6302 Heat Exchanger, Raw Water Pump And Lines Group--Part 2 Of 2
5L***02Heat Exchanger, Raw Water Pump And Lines Group1
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5l6302 Heat Exchanger, Raw Water Pump And Lines Group--Part 1 Of 2
5L***02Heat Exchanger, Raw Water Pump And Lines Group1
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5l8660 Exhaust Fitting Group--4 Inch--Horizontal
5L***60Horizontal Exhaust Fitting Group1
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4l2150 Instrument Panel Group--Pilot House Mounted
4l4612 Instrument Panel Group
5l8251 Jacket Water Aftercooler And Connections Group--Keel Cooling
5L***51Jacket Water Aftercooler And Connections Group1
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5l1296 Jacket Water Cooled Aftercooler Group--Type 2
5L***96Jacket Water Cooled Aftercooler Group1
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5l1296 Jacket Water Cooled Aftercooler Group--Type 1
5L***96Jacket Water Cooled Aftercooler Group1
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1p1122 Kit--Thrust Bearing Conversion
1P***22Kit1
2S***06Bearing --Thrust1
2S***08Deflector-- Oil1
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5l4493 Motor And Wiring Group--32 Volt
5l5897 Motor And Wiring Group--12 Volt
5l5868 Motor And Wiring Group--12 Volt
3l9119 Motor And Wiring Group--24 Volt
8l8207 Electric Starting Motor Assembly--32 Volt--Part 1 Of 2
8l8207 Electric Starting Motor Assembly--32 Volt--Part 2 Of 2
5l2537 Motor Assembly--24 Volt--Part 1 Of 2--Type 1
5l2537 Motor Assembly--24 Volt--Part 2 Of 2--Type 2
5l2537 Motor Assembly--24 Volt--Part 1 Of 2--Type 2
5l2537 Motor Assembly--24 Volt--Part 2 Of 2--Type 1
4l1902 Generator Mounting And Drive Group
4l2068 Generator Mounting And Drive Group
5l8293 Oil Cooler Assembly
4l1872 Oil Filler And Oil Level Gauge Group--R.H.
4L***72Oil Filler And Oil Level Gauge Group1
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4l5801 Exhaust Pipe Group--6 Inch
5l8632 Exhaust Pipe Group--5 Inch
5l8649 Exhaust Pipe Group--4 Inch
3l9705 Primary Fuel Filter Group--Type 1
3l9705 Primary Fuel Filter Group--Type 2
8f2184 Centrifugal Pump
6l5861 Pump Drive Group--Bilge
5l1479 Rack Limiter Group
5l1125 Raw Water Cooled Aftercooler Group--Type 1
5L***25Raw Water Cooled Aftercooler Group1
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5l1125 Raw Water Cooled Aftercooler Group--Type 2
5L***25Raw Water Cooled Aftercooler Group1
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4l1919 Raw Water Pump Assembly
4l9070 Raw Water Pump Assembly
5l6043 Water Pump Group
5l2390 Water Pump Group--Type 2
5l6743 Raw Water Pump Group--Field Installation
5l2390 Water Pump Group--Type 1
4l2887 Raw Water Pump Group--Rubber Impeller
3l6000 Regulator--12 Volt, 30 Ampere
3l4312 Regulator--24 Volt, 18 Ampere
3l4336 Regulator--12 Volt, 35 Ampere
6l5657 Regulator Assembly--24 Volt, 60 Ampere
5l7690 Regulator Assembly--32 Volt, 18 Ampere
5l7572 Full Flow By-Pass Regulator Group
4l9115 Alarm Contactor Group--1/8" Pipe Thread
5l9879 Oil Pressure And Water Temperature Safety Contactor Group
5l7428 Single Panel Group--24 Or 32 Volt
5l9892 Single Panel Group--12 Volt
5l7429 Single Panel Group--12 Volt
8f4185 Foot Valve And Strainer Assembly
8F***85Strainer As; Foot Valve And Strainer Assembly1
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4m1812 Solenoid Switch Assembly
5l8735 Solenoid Switch Assembly
3l7112 Tachometer Drive Group
4l8393 Tachometer Drive Group
4l2353 Electric Tachometer Group
4L***53Tachometer Group-Electric; Electric Tachometer Group1
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1l5010 Air Receiver Group--10.5 Cubic Foot Capacity
9m3181 Turbocharger Assembly--Type 2
8m6839 Turbocharger Assembly--Type 3
8m6831 Turbocharger Assembly--Type 3
9m2625 Turbocharger Assembly--Type 1
9m2625 Turbocharger Assembly--Type 2
8m6838 Turbocharger Assembly--Type 1
3s4449 Turbocharger Assembly--Replaces 9m5155
4m9166 Turbocharger Assembly
7m4242 Turbocharger Assembly
9m5155 Turbocharger Assembly--Replaces 9m2625--Type 1
9m1764 Turbocharger Assembly--Type 1
1s519 Turbocharger Assembly--Type 2
9m5155 Turbocharger Assembly--Type 2
9m1764 Turbocharger Assembly--Type 2
9m3184 Turbocharger Assembly--Type 2
8m6831 Turbocharger Assembly--Type 2
8m6838 Turbocharger Assembly--Type 2
8m5507 Turbocharger Assembly--Type 1
8m6838 Turbocharger Assembly--Type 3
8m6832 Turbocharger Assembly--Type 3
3s4450 Or 8s3964 Turbocharger Assembly
5m8240 Turbocharger Assembly
8m9072 Turbocharger Assembly--Type 2
8m6832 Turbocharger Assembly--Type 1
8m6839 Turbocharger Assembly--Type 1
1s519 Turbocharger Assembly--Type 1
8m9072 Turbocharger Assembly
3s4448 Turbocharger Assembly--Replaces 9m3182
8m7925 Turbocharger Assembly--Type 2
9m3184 Turbocharger Assembly--Replaces 8m7925--Type 1
3s4441 Turbocharger Assembly
8m6832 Turbocharger Assembly--Type 2
5m7586 Turbocharger Assembly
9m3181 Turbocharger Assembly--Replaces 8m5507--Type 1
8m6839 Turbocharger Assembly--Type 2
9m3182 Turbocharger Assembly
8m5507 Turbocharger Assembly--Type 2
9m3182 Turbocharger Assembly--Type 2
8s3963 Turbocharger Assembly--Replaces 3s4449
5m8239 Turbocharger Assembly
9m5156 Turbocharger Assembly--Type 2
8m7925 Turbocharger Assembly--Type 1
8m6831 Turbocharger Assembly--Type 1
9m5156 Turbocharger Assembly--Type 1
3s4421 Turbocharger Assembly--Type 1
9m3183 Turbocharger Assembly
3s4420 Turbocharger Assembly
1l5011 Regulating And Pressure Reducing Valve
5l8604 Exhaust Fitting Group--6 Inch--Vertical
5l8602 Exhaust Fitting Group--4 Inch--Vertical
4l6819 Water Cooled Exhaust Elbow Group--6 Inch
5l6493 Water Cooled Exhaust Elbow Group--6 Inch
5L***93Water Cooled Exhaust Elbow Group1
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5l6924 Water Cooled Exhaust Elbow Group--5 Inch
5L***24Water Cooled Exhaust Elbow Group1
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5l7804 Water Cooled Exhaust Pipe Group--5 Inch
5L***04Water Cooled Exhaust Pipe Group1
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5l4572 Water Pump Assembly
5l2391 Water Pump Assembly
6l5857 Water Pump Group--Bilge
3l9921 Whistle Valve Assembly
Diesel Engine
Accessory Drive
Aftercooler (5l7471 N/S)
Air Cleaner (5l7628 N/S)--Dry Type
Air Cleaner--Dry Type
Camshaft
Camshaft (9h9091 N/S)
Connecting Rod And Piston (5m1785 N/S)--6 Required
Crankshaft (4l2969 N/S)
Crankshaft Bearing Replacement Groups
Cylinder Block And Covers--Side View--Part 1 Of 2
Cylinder Block And Covers--End View--Part 2 Of 2
4m9001 Cylinder Block Assembly
7m4403 Cylinder Block Assembly--Type 2
7m4403 Cylinder Block Assembly--Type 1
Cylinder Head And Valve Mechanism--Side View--Part 1 Of 2
Cylinder Head And Valve Mechanism--End View--Part 2 Of 2
Cylinder Head And Valve Mechanism--End View Part 2 Of 2
Exhaust Pipe
Flywheel
5l2749 Flywheel Group
Fuel Filter
Fuel Injection Valves And Lines
Fuel Pump Housing And Governor
2m4050 Fuel Pump Housing Group
8h9794 Fuel Transfer Pump Assembly
4l6480 Governor Group
6l3446 Heat Exchanger Assembly
5l7865 Heat Exchanger Assembly
6l1990 Heat Exchanger Assembly
Manifold
5l9489 Manifold Group--Part 2 Of 2
5l8684 Manifold Group
5l9489 Manifold Group--Part 1 Of 2
Manifolds
Marine Gear Oil Cooler
Oil Cooler
Oil Filler, Breather And Fumes Disposal
9m530 Oil Filter Assembly
4m8207 Oil Filter Assembly
7m7672 Oil Filter Assembly
Oil Pump
8m4616 Oil Pump Assembly
2m832 Oil Pump Assembly
7m4201 Oil Pump Assembly--Type 1
9l1282 Oil Pump Assembly
9l455 Oil Pump Assembly
7m4201 Oil Pump Assembly--Type 2
Raw Water Pump, Heat Exchanger And Connections--Part 2 Of 2
Raw Water Pump, Heat Exchanger And Connections--Part 1 Of 2
Service Meter (3l5665 N/S)
Surge Tank And Water Lines
Turbocharger And Turbocharger Mounting
8m7926 Turbocharger Assembly
4m9165 Turbocharger Assembly
9m3183 Turbocharger Assembly
Turbocharger Mounting
Turbocharger Mounting And Oil Lines
Turbocharger Oil Lines And Valve
5l5770 Turbocharger Oil Lines And Valve Group--Field Installation
5L***70Turbocharger Oil Lines And Valve Group1
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Turbocharger, Turbocharger Mounting And Sequence Valve
Water Cooled Exhaust Manifold
6l6390 Water Cooled Exhaust Manifold Group--Field Installation
6L***90Water Cooled Exhaust Manifold Group1
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2s1678 Water Pump Assembly
5l6042 Water Pump Assembly
3l8829 Water Pump Group
5l7879 Water Pump Group
Marine Gears
8f9866 Grease Gun--Type 2
8f9866 Grease Gun--Type 1
Marine Control
5L***91Twin "S" Control --Pilot House; Twin "S" Control-- Pilot House1
5L***16Cable-16 Foot0
5L***17Cable-14 Foot0
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4l8669 Marine Gear Arrangement--Raw Water Cooling--2.04 : 1 Ratio
4L***94Heat Exchanger Connections Group1
4L***69Marine Gear Arrangement1
4L***74Mounting Group1
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4l9255 Marine Gear Arrangement--Raw Water Cooling--2.95 : 1 Ratio
4L***94Heat Exchanger Connections Group1
4L***74Mounting Group1
4L***75Oil Cooler Group1
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4l8670 Marine Gear Arrangement--Raw Water Cooling--3.39 : 1 Ratio
4L***94Heat Exchanger Connections Group1
4L***70Marine Gear Arrangement1
4L***74Mounting Group1
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4l8671 Marine Gear Arrangement--Keel Cooling--1.47 : 1 Ratio
4L***71Marine Gear Arrangement1
4L***74Mounting Group1
4L***76Oil Cooler Group1
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4l9254 Marine Gear Arrangement--Keel Cooling--2.95 : 1 Ratio
4L***74Mounting Group1
4L***76Oil Cooler Group1
4L***15Water Lines Group1
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5l9201 Marine Gear Arrangement - 4.4 : 1 Ratio
5L***01Marine Gear Arrangement1
5L***02Marine Gear Assembly1
5L***38Mounting Group1
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4l8668 Marine Gear Arrangement--Raw Water Cooling--1.47 : 1 Ratio
4L***94Heat Exchanger Connections Group1
4L***68Marine Gear Arrangement1
4L***74Mounting Group1
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5l6816 Marine Gear Arrangement - 3.39 : 1 Ratio
5L***16Marine Gear Arrangement1
5L***79Marine Gear Assembly1
5L***09Mounting Group; Marine Gear Mounting Group1
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4l8672 Marine Gear Arrangement--Keel Cooling--2.04 : 1 Ratio
4L***72Marine Gear Arrangement1
4L***74Mounting Group1
4L***76Oil Cooler Group1
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5l6813 Marine Gear Arrangement - 1.47 : 1 Ratio
5L***13Marine Gear Arrangement1
5L***76Marine Gear Assembly1
5L***09Mounting Group; Marine Gear Mounting Group1
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5l6815 Marine Gear Arrangement - 2.95 : 1 Ratio
5L***15Marine Gear Arrangement1
5L***78Marine Gear Assembly1
5L***09Mounting Group; Marine Gear Mounting Group1
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5l6814 Marine Gear Arrangement - 2.04 : 1 Ratio
5L***14Marine Gear Arrangement1
5L***77Marine Gear Assembly1
5L***09Mounting Group; Marine Gear Mounting Group1
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4l8673 Marine Gear Arrangement--Keel Cooling--3.39 : 1 Ratio
4L***73Marine Gear Arrangement1
4L***74Mounting Group1
4L***76Oil Cooler Group1
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5l1459 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 1 Of 3--Type 2
6l2684 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 1 Of 3
5l8476 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 3 Of 3
5l1461 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 1 Of 3--Type 1
5l1460 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 3 Of 3--Type 3
5l8479 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 3 Of 3
5l9202 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 2 Of 3
5l1461 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 3 Of 3--Type 2
6l2913 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 2 Of 3
6l2913 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 3 Of 3
6l2856 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 1 Of 3
5l1461 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 2 Of 3--Type 2
5l1461 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 2 Of 3--Type 3
5l1462 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 2 Of 3--Type 3
6l2173 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 1 Of 3--Replaces 5l8476
5l1460 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 3 Of 3--Type 2
5l1462 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 2 Of 3--Type 1
5l1462 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 3 Of 3--Type 2
5l1460 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 2 Of 3--Type 2
5l1461 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 2 Of 3--Type 1
6l2684 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 3 Of 3
5l1462 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 3 Of 3--Type 1
5l8479 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 1 Of 3
6l2856 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 3 Of 3
6l2173 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 3 Of 3--Replaces 5l8476
5l1461 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 3 Of 3--Type 1
5l1460 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 2 Of 3--Type 3
5l9202 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 1 Of 3
5l1462 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 1 Of 3--Type 2
6l2684 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 2 Of 3
5l8479 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 2 Of 3
5l1462 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 3 Of 3--Type 3
5l1459 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 3 Of 3--Type 2
6l2913 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 1 Of 3
5l9202 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 3 Of 3
5l1462 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 1 Of 3--Type 3
5l1460 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 3 Of 3--Type 1
5l1460 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 1 Of 3--Type 3
5l1461 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 1 Of 3--Type 3
5l1459 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 2 Of 3--Type 2
5l1459 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 1 Of 3--Type 3
5l8478 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 1 Of 3
5l8476 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 2 Of 3
5l1459 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 3 Of 3--Type 3
5l1460 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 1 Of 3--Type 2
5l8477 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 3 Of 3
5l1459 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 2 Of 3--Type 3
5l1460 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 2 Of 3--Type 1
5l1462 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 2 Of 3--Type 2
6l2856 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 2 Of 3
5l1461 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 1 Of 3--Type 2
5l8476 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 1 Of 3
5l8478 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 2 Of 3
5l8477 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 2 Of 3
6l2173 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 2 Of 3--Replaces 5l8476
5l8477 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 1 Of 3
5l8478 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 3 Of 3
5l1459 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 1 Of 3--Type 1
5l1460 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 1 Of 3--Type 1
5l1459 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 3 Of 3--Type 1
5l1462 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 1 Of 3--Type 1
5l1459 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 2 Of 3--Type 1
6l3624 Marine Gear Group--Housing
6l3614 Marine Gear Group--Service
5l1461 Marine Gear Assembly--Part 3 Of 3 Type 3
5l8509 Mounting Group--Type 1
5L***09Mounting Group; Marine Gear Mounting Group1
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5l9238 Mounting Group--Type 1--Factory Installation
5l9238 Mounting Group--Part 2 Of 2--Type 4--Factory Installation
5l9238 Mounting Group--Type 2--Factory Installation
5l8509 Mounting Group--Type 2
5L***09Mounting Group; Marine Gear Mounting Group1
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5l9238 Mounting Group--Part 1 Of 2--Type 4--Factory Installation
4l8674 Mounting Group
5l9238 Mounting Group--Type 3--Factory Installation
Name Plates And Transfers
2M***31Plate; Serial Number On R.H. Side Of Cylinder Block And R.H. Side Of Loader Frame1
4B***59Drive Screw Serial Number Plate2
5L***85Plate; Warning And Information On Flywheel Housing2
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4l8676 Oil Cooler Group
4l8675 Oil Cooler Group
4l7662 Selector Valve Assembly
4l3222 Selector Valve Assembly
4l1560 Tool Group
4l8715 Water Lines Group

D333A serial number reference

On the D333A the engine serial/arrangement number is stamped on a plate on the right side of the block near the injection pump, or on the flywheel housing on marine builds. Where the D333A was the original engine in a 1960s machine (Cat 977H track loader, 966/966B wheel loader, D6C crawler tractor), the same prefix also shows on the machine's frame-mounted serial plate, since engine and unit numbering were shared on these vintage models. The prefix is the first 3 characters ahead of the numeric run, for example 59B12345 or 53A01907. A 6-bolt, low-profile rocker cover and belt-driven water pump identify a D333A block; a gear-driven water pump points to the later D333B/D333C.

PrefixIdentifies
59BD333A marine engine, standard marine production block
88BD333A marine engine, second marine production serial block
53AD333A engine as originally fitted in the Cat 977H track loader (Traxcavator)
75AD333A turbocharged engine (D333aT) as fitted in early Cat 966 / 966B wheel loaders
74AD333A turbocharged block as fitted in the Cat D6C crawler tractor, direct-drive transmission
82AD333A turbocharged block as fitted in the Cat D6C crawler tractor, direct-drive transmission (UK-built)
83AD333A turbocharged block as fitted in the Cat D6C crawler tractor, powershift transmission (UK-built)

Frequently asked questions

What engine powers the Caterpillar D333A?

The D333A is itself the engine - a naturally aspirated, mechanical inline-six diesel with a 114.3 mm x 139.7 mm (4.5 in x 5.5 in) bore and stroke, displacing roughly 8.6 liters (525 cu in). It was built for marine propulsion, generator-set, and industrial mechanical-drive duty, not as a component fitted inside a larger machine.

What is the operating weight of the D333A?

No full-machine operating weight is documented, since the D333A is a stationary/marine power unit rather than a mobile machine with a gross vehicle weight rating. The dry engine block itself weighs roughly 900-1,000 kg (2,000-2,200 lb) depending on accessory fitment; adding the marine gear, heat exchanger, and flywheel housing increases installed weight further.

What replaced the D333A?

Within the same family, the D333A/B generation gave way to the D333C around the late 1960s, which increased bore to 120.7 mm (4.75 in) and switched to a gear-driven jacket water pump. Caterpillar then consolidated the line into the 3304 and 3306 engines, which carried the mechanical inline-six architecture forward into later emissions-tiered and electronically governed production.

What D333A owners discuss

What do owners say about the D333A's injection pump and governor setup?
The D333A uses a mechanical inline pump per cylinder feeding a precombustion chamber, and the pump-governor assembly is calibrated as a matched set rather than a bolt-in generic unit. After long dormancy or a run of poor-quality fuel, owners report the governor linkage and pump gumming up with old-fuel varnish, causing rough idle or hunting until cleaned and recalibrated. Rebuilders recommend sending the whole pump-governor assembly to a specialist for recalibration rather than swapping individual internal parts.
How do D333A cylinder liners hold up, and can they still be replaced?
Consensus among vintage-Cat owners is that the wet liners are very hard-wearing and consistent with this engine's low-speed, low-stress reputation, so bore wear under normal duty is slow. The practical problem today is stock: new liners in this bore size are scarce, and some rebuilders fall back on hard-chrome plating or custom-machined sleeves when a factory replacement can't be found. Anyone budgeting a rebuild should plan on a specialty vintage-diesel supplier rather than a mainstream parts counter, and expect longer lead times.
What cooling-system problems come up most with this engine?
It depends on how the installation is plumbed. Fresh-water-cooled engines running a raw-water-to-heat-exchanger loop are prone to heat-exchanger fouling from salt and debris, so periodic flushing and raw-water pump impeller checks are standard advice. Keel-cooled setups see less scale buildup but are more sensitive to trapped air; one documented case had a D333A overheat after a transmission-cooler repair simply because the fresh-water side wasn't fully bled on refill. If overheating shows up after any cooling-system repair, have your dealer or a qualified diesel mechanic verify the bleed procedure and pump condition before loading the engine.
How does the marine reduction/reverse gear behave with the D333A?
These engines were commonly paired with separate marine reduction gears (reduction ratio varies by installation), and owners treat the gearbox as its own maintenance item independent of the engine. When checking a used setup, the usual practice is to run the engine in gear under load, then inspect the gear fluid for dark color, burnt smell, or metallic specks under bright light, which point to worn clutch packs or bearings. Hesitation on reverse engagement is more often traced to the gear's own linkage or oil condition than to the engine itself.
Is the D333A hard to start in cold weather?
Yes, this is a widely repeated characteristic of the precombustion-chamber design: owners describe a preheat cycle on the glow plugs followed by a rough first minute or two of running even on a healthy engine. A safety point raised consistently in diesel forums is that starting fluid should never be introduced while glow plugs are still hot, since ether hitting a hot element can cause a dangerous over-rev or backfire. Circulating coolant heaters and a lighter winter-grade oil are the preferred fix over relying on starting fluid. Because misuse of starting aids on a glow-plug engine is a safety issue, have your dealer or a qualified diesel mechanic verify glow-plug condition before using any starting aid.
Are parts and rebuild kits still realistically available for the D333A today?
Owners describe the D333A as mechanically simple and reliable, part of why examples are still running in settings that favor non-electronic engines, but the supply chain has thinned considerably. Overhaul and in-frame kits are sold serial-number-specific through a small number of legacy-Cat specialists rather than mainstream heavy-duty parts chains, and charging-system wear parts on earlier DC-generator-equipped units are also getting scarce, which pushes some owners toward alternator conversions. Budget more lead time for sourcing than a modern engine rebuild would need.
What should I check before buying a used D333A-powered boat or genset?
Beyond a full marine survey, inspect the engine bed and mounts for cracks or water staining, pull an oil sample to screen for coolant or fuel contamination, and run the engine under load long enough to sample the marine gear fluid for metal particles. Confirm which cooling configuration is fitted, heat exchanger or keel cooler, since upkeep differs between them, and verify rocker-cover and liner details match the claimed serial prefix rather than assuming parts commonality with later D333 variants. Given the age of the engine and the stakes of a marine installation, have a qualified marine surveyor or dealer verify engine and gearbox condition before purchase.

Compiled from owner and technician discussions across the industry — experiences vary by serial range and machine history.

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