Caterpillar 3196B 660hp

One of my ole favorites.
Lots others don't like it.
6000 hours.
Now, Cat uses an old formula on older engines, fuel consumed and not hours.
Kind of makes sense, if it was running and making 550 to 600 hp all its life, then maybe 3000 hours. if pampered and only making 300 hp all its life, then maybe 6000.
You see what I mean,, same amount of fuel consumed.
Sadly, probably no Flow-Scan on board. So ask, just what was the nominal operating rpm?
Look over all records. If no receipt, didn't happen.

Also, ole charter boat???? Look thru records with a microscope.

Now, keep in mind, those old after-coolers have to get replaced if not recently already.
Air box heaters also. Rust up like a clothes dryer element,,, well, that is what it is..
Plan on these if a dock queen for sure.

Lots of folks ask about these engines.
Real old beast but popular in old boats.
I used to help on one with air starters.

Are you looking at a purchase?
Let us know, somebody here may know the boat.

Survey them well. Replace after-coolers. Check receipts and logs.
Captain maintained don't mean squab unless we know the captain,,, even then???

These threads are read over by many.
I'm sure you could use more than my comments.