3208 Cat Engine Specs
Here in this article, you will learn about the 3208 Cat Engine Specs, Performance, Bore & Stroke, Cylinder Heads, Cam Specs & More Let’s discuss the 3208 Cat Engine Specs, Valvetrain, performance, and Reviews.
The CAT 3208 is a V-8-cylinder diesel engine that runs on four strokes. It debuted on The market in 1975 through cooperation between Caterpillar And Ford to produce a diesel engine for heavy-duty trucks, tractor-trailers, garbage trucks, school buses construction equipment, and maritime applications.
Through the early 1990s and into the late 1990s, the CAT 3208 was a widely used diesel engine for vehicles And boats. The inadequacy of the engine to conform to international emissions requirements mandated by clean air regulations led to the end of production in 1999.
In addition to its general popularity, the engine’s consistent performance also contributed to its extensive adoption. As a result many vehicles equipped with the CAT 3208 continue to operate long after production of the diesel engine was discontinued.
Engine variations | Production Years | Horsepower |
CAT 3208 diesel engine | Trucks: 1975 to 1993 Marine: 1975 to 1999 |
Minimum: 200 hp @ 2000 RPM Maximum: 235 hp @ 2600 RPM |
Engine variations | Normal conditions |
CAT 3208 diesel engine (Truck version) |
Oil capacity: 16 quarts Engine oil & air filter: 6,000 miles/6 months Fuel filter: 15,000 miles/6 months Engine coolant: 200,000 miles/24 months Transmission fluid & filter: 30,000 miles |
Feature comparison | CAT 3208 diesel engine |
Production years | 1975 to 1993 |
Horsepower | Minimum: 200 hp @ 2000 RPM Maximum: 235 hp @ 2600 RPM |
Torque | Minimum: 620 lb-ft @ 1440 RPM Maximum: 640 lb-ft @ 1400 RPM |
CAT 3208 – Transmissions
Transmissions by Allison with four gears were standard on many of the first CAT 3208 diesel engines.
Transmissions using Allison’s four-speed automatic AT545 were used with later diesel engine models.
Using a CAT 3116 or CAT 3216 for Towing
The CAT 3208 diesel engine’s maximum towing capacity is 7,500 pounds making it suitable for use in heavy-duty trucks.
Power and torque were increased in later engine variants to allow for more serious towing.
While the CAT 3208 marine diesel engine has fewer horsepower, some vessels have two of them for increased propulsion.
The Typical Service Interval of a CAT 3208 Diesel Engine
The maximum mileage before a major overhaul or repair is needed on a CAT 3208 diesel engine is 150,000 miles.
When compared to alternative diesel engines, such a lifespan is deemed low.
Due to the lack of cylinder liners and the extensive changes required in the aftermarket, the first versions were dubbed “throwaway engines” by mechanics.
Specifications for Servicing a CAT 3208 Engine
In demanding operating environments, such as prolonged idling, dusty surroundings, heavy hauling, or short journeys without reaching optimal temperature, proper maintenance and the use of high-quality fluids is crucial for the functioning of a CAT 3208 diesel engine.
3208 Cat Engine Specs Review Video
3208 Cat Engine Specs FAQ
What does a 3208 Cat engine weight?
Sold Inventory Archive: 100 kW Caterpillar Diesel 3208, Unit 87841 AVAILABLE RIGHT NOW!▸ Storage Capacity: 150 gallons Approximately 5,500 pounds
What engine replaced the CAT 3208?
For those looking to upgrade from a Cat 3208, the C7.1 is a great option.
How long will a cat 3208 last?
Proper preparation is essential. I would estimate 12,000–15,000 hours of operation Before considering a rebuild if the engines have been well maintained as you claim.
Even if They only last for 10,000 hours, that’s still 25 years of use (assuming 200 hours per year of use).
Is a CAT 3208 a good motor?
The engine’s popularity stemmed from its consistent and efficient operation.
So many vehicles with the CAT 3208 diesel engine continued to chug along long after assembly lines closed.
Heavy-duty trucks could choose from three different horsepower ranges of the CAT 3208 diesel engine, which was manufactured for twenty years.

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