When purchasing a Caterpillar marine engine, there are two factors to consider: what you need it to do and how you want it to do it.

Shopping for anything could be compared to solving a problem; especially when it’s the purchase of a large piece of equipment. You’ve realized you have a need, so now, the task at hand is searching for the solution that will meet that need and deciding how to get it. Depco can help!

Getting Started With Caterpillar Marine Engines

The Buyer’s Resource page on our website contains the basic information you’ll need to begin your search. You can also download our free Buyer’s Guide for more in-depth information. In support, when planning to purchase a Caterpillar marine engine, considering the Five W’s and One H of problem-solving (who, what, where, when, why, and how) can help nail down the specifics. You can streamline your selection by seeking answers to a few of these questions.

What do you need your Caterpillar marine engine to do?

Having a solid grasp on what marine engines can do, and clearly understanding what you will need your engine to do, makes up a large part of your purchasing decision.

“Do you need a marine propulsion engine or a marine auxiliary engine? The answer depends on what you plan to do with it. Marine auxiliary engines are also designed to run on and near the water, but they’re used to power generators, water pumps, winches, and other non-mobile applications.” (Depco Buyer’s Guide)

What are your operational needs?

• Do you need a propulsion engine or auxiliary engine?
• Similar to a regular engine, horsepower and bell housing need consideration. But since your engine will be on water, cooling and heating options need attention in the decision-making process as well.
• How much of a load will your engine be pulling?

How will your Caterpillar marine engine accomplish your needs?

A few questions to consider before purchasing a Caterpillar marine engine that will meet your needs are:

What is your budget?

• Will you be purchasing a used engine, new, or rebuilt?
• If you go for used, do you prefer low hour usage or will high hour usage work for you?
• What other parts will you need to ensure your engine performs to your specific needs and standards?
• What will the delivery costs be?

Where will your engine be used?

• Will it be used on a vessel for work or pleasure?
• Will it be used on freshwater or saltwater; shallow water or deep?
• What type of fuel will you have access to?

Still unsure about what marine engine to buy?

All of the technical details and decisions can seem daunting if this is your first time purchasing a piece of equipment like this.

We would like to help answer your questions and eliminate any concerns you may have. Contact our sales staff to see the Caterpillar marine engines we have in our over 30,000 square feet of available inventory. Let us get you set up with something that will meet your budgetary and operational needs and get your vessel ready for the water.