Propulsion engines

C280-6

The Cat® C280 commercial propulsion engine series is engineered for high‑utilization workboat applications where power, durability, and uptime matter most. Delivering up to 23% more power with increased durability, the C280 series combines high power density, proven heavy‑duty build, and long service intervals to help operators move more, pull harder, and stay working longer, day after day, compared to previous C280 models.

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A3 Ecu

  • CAN J1939 data link
    • Waterproof connectors
    • Maintenance-free
    • Backup ECU for redundant governing

Electronic Advantages:

  • Load feedback
    • Programmable droop
    • Adjustable gain
    • Adjustable fuel/air ratio control
    • Histograms of engine operation
    • Cat Messenger display presents diagnostics and other engine parameters

Data Advantages through J1939 Link:

  • Engine speed
    • Boost pressure
    • Throttle position
    • Fuel consumption rate
    • Inlet manifold temperature
    • Diagnostic codes and events
    • Configuration
    • Desired engine speed
    • Battery voltage
    • Engine load
    • Lifetime totals — engine hours, fuel burned, idle fuel, idle hours
    • Trip totals — average fuel rate, idle fuel, idle hours, engine hours, fuel burned, trip reset

Customer Interface Panel

  • Interfaces with standard Cat® Marine Monitoring System (PLC in Price List)
    • Provides visual indication of ECU functionality
    • Accepts 4 — 20 mA or PWM remote throttle speed input
    • Marine alarm and protection

Electronic Unit Injectors

  • • “Drop-in” installation
    • No threaded fuel connections
    • High pressure inside injector only
    • Does not require double wall fuel lines or leak collection device
    • Injector synchronization not required

Built for Extreme Conditions

Proven in the field: rigorous endurance testing; thermal, overspeed,cold starts, and emissions, alongside 350,000+ field hours. Heavy-duty design and marine-hardened electronics.

High Power Density

Delivering 5,420–8,000 bkW at 900–1000 rpm, the C280 series combines exceptional power density with flexible ratings and optimized torque at low speeds, maximizing performance for diverse marine propulsion demands.

Serviceability

Maximize uptime with extended service intervals with up to 1400 hours on select configurations. Supported by clear maintenance plans and backed by Caterpillar’s global network for fast parts, expert technicians, and lifecycle support worldwide.

Power Rating
Power Range2320-2722 bhp (1730-2030 bkW)
Engine Specifications
ApplicationWorkboat
Speed Range900-1000 rpm
EmissionsIMO II
AspirationTA
Bore11.0 in
Stroke11.8 in
Displacement6773.0 in³
Rotation from Flywheel EndCounterclockwise or clockwise
ConfigurationIn-line 6, 4-Stroke-Cycle Diesel
Dimensions & Weights
Dry Weight34496.0 lb
Length158.0 in
Width71.0 in
Height108.0 in

General

  • LH or RH service connections

Air Inlet System

  • Aftercooler, fresh water, corrosion resistant coated
  • Crankcase breathers, top-mounted
  • Single turbocharger, rear-mounted, engine oil lubricated
  • Air inlet adapter - Straight / 90 degree / 35 degree

Control System

  • Dual Caterpillar ADEM A4 Electronic Engine Control Modules
  • Rigid Wiring Harness
  • Aftercooler / oil cooler and jacket water pumps (gear driven)

Cooling System

  • Engine coolant water drains
  • Single Circuit / Separate Circuit Aftercooler
  • Dry, gas tight, exhaust manifold

Exhaust System

  • Dry, gas tight, exhaust manifold
  • Turbo speed sensors - overspeed protection
  • Exhaust manifold shielding, soft

Fuel System

  • Fuel transfer pump, gear driven
  • Electronically Controlled Unit Injectors

Instrumentation

  • CAT Alarm & Protection System

Lube System

  • Oil pump, gear driven

Lube Systems

  • 2 element oil cooler, engine mounted
  • Duplex centrifugal oil filter-engine mounted
  • Wet sump
  • Prelube pump - air / electric

Protection System

  • Crankcase explosion relief valves

Protection Ssystem

  • Mounted oil mist detector
  • C280-6 Marine Commercial Prop Engine
    application/pdf

Need installed dimensions with enclosure and tank? See Model Configurations