T&T: Cat 3208T

[Robin Brueckner]

Dennis' post says nearly all.
 
What is the "leak down down test" he refers??? Never heard of that.
 
Anyway, the one critical item not mentioned is the normal cruise RPM used by
the prior owner(s). If an owner runs any diesel at WOT at 3500 hours those
engines will be GONE...ready and needing a rebuild. If they were run a modest
RPM, they should give you another 3500 hours especially if you use them
regularly. I always like to ask normal cruise speed (knots) and normal cruise
RPM (engine revolutions)....many times an owner will quote figures that are
clearly inconsistent...either they don't know or are intentionally trying to
mislead...you have to judge.
 
When getting engine oil analyzed, it is also important to note whether the
engine has been in recent and normal use. If not, surface corrosion in
cylinders might well appear as excess iron in an oil analysis...when all it is
is oxidation (small particles) being scrapped off the cylinder walls from lack
of use. They engine might in fact be perfect. There is a related test that
shows the particle size....and if particles are larger than the minute surface
oxidation then that would potentially reflect a worn engine.
 
As long as you, the new owner, is not going to run the engines for maximum
speed, likely they'll be good for many many years if given proper care.