Caterpillar 3512 E

Engine Specifications & Applications of the Caterpillar 3512E Engine

Introduction

The Caterpillar 3512E engine represents the peak of the 3512 series evolution—offering high horsepower, advanced emissions compliance, and state-of-the-art electronic control. Built for high-demand, high-output applications, the 3512E integrates robust hardware with the ADEM™ A4 ECM system and high-pressure fuel delivery to produce reliable performance across marine, power generation, oilfield, and heavy industrial sectors.

Designed for EPA Tier 4 and IMO III compliance, the 3512E is used in regulated environments that demand both cleaner emissions and relentless uptime. Its massive displacement and torque curve allow it to replace multiple smaller units while still delivering a smoother operating profile, even under variable loads.

Diesel Pro Power proudly supports the 3512E platform with a comprehensive line of aftermarket parts—engineered to meet or exceed OEM performance standards. Our inventory ensures global availability, quick turnaround, and cost-effective support for critical equipment powered by this top-tier Caterpillar engine.

Engine Specifications

Core Engine Design

• Model: Caterpillar 3512E

• Engine Type: 4-stroke cycle, V-12, turbocharged and aftercooled

• Displacement: 51.8 liters (3,158 cubic inches)

• Bore: 170 mm (6.69 inches)

• Stroke: 215 mm (8.46 inches)

• Aspiration: Turbocharged with SCAC (Separate Circuit Aftercooling)

• Fuel System: Common Rail Electronic Fuel Injection

• Electronic Control: ADEM™ A4 ECM

• Emissions Compliance: EPA Tier 4 Final / IMO III

Power Output

• Horsepower Range: 1,650–2,500 hp depending on configuration

• Rated Speed: 1,200–1,800 RPM

• Max Torque: 6,000–7,000 lb-ft

• Fuel Efficiency: ~0.31–0.34 lbs/hp/hr at full load

Dimensions & Weight

• Length: 134–140 inches (3,400–3,550 mm)

• Width: 78–82 inches (1,980–2,080 mm)

• Height: 90–96 inches (2,290–2,440 mm)

• Dry Weight: ~15,500 lbs (7,030 kg)

Lubrication & Cooling

• Oil Capacity: 70–85 liters (18.5–22.5 gallons)

• Cooling System Capacity: ~110 liters (29 gallons)

• Oil Type: SAE 15W-40 CJ-4/CK-4 compliant

• Cooling Type: SCAC with high-efficiency heat exchangers

Applications of the Caterpillar 3512E Engine

The Caterpillar 3512E is designed for environments where reliability is mission-critical and emissions standards are strictly enforced. From the open ocean to remote oilfields, this engine delivers constant power with intelligent fuel usage and minimal downtime. Diesel Pro Power’s aftermarket support ensures you always have access to the parts you need to keep your 3512E running.

1. Marine Applications

Propulsion Systems

The 3512E is a Tier 4 marine engine used in:

• Offshore supply vessels

• Tugboats and push boats

• Patrol craft

• Coastal ferries and transport ships

• Fishing trawlers operating in U.S. and international waters

With its electronically controlled fuel system and integrated aftertreatment, the 3512E provides precise throttle response, excellent low-RPM torque, and full compliance with IMO III regulations. It excels in dynamic marine operating conditions where maneuverability and fuel efficiency are equally important.

Diesel Pro Power supports marine propulsion users with:

• Marine aftercoolers and SCAC heat exchangers

• Raw water pumps and impellers

• Throttle cables and linkage kits

• Gasket kits designed for saltwater exposure

• Turbochargers and compressor housings

Auxiliary Marine Systems

The 3512E also powers marine:

• Gensets

• Fire suppression pumps

• Winches and hydraulics

• Refrigeration and HVAC compressors

For these applications, Diesel Pro Power supplies:

• Oil coolers

• Sensor kits (temperature, pressure, flow)

• Fuel lift pumps and filter assemblies

• Electronic actuators and wiring harnesses

2. Power Generation Systems

The 3512E is a cornerstone in:

• Emergency standby generators

• Prime power for data centers, hospitals, and airports

• Remote power in mining or industrial camps

• Mobile and trailer-mounted generator units

With Tier 4 Final emissions compliance and ADEM A4 digital load management, the 3512E is ideal for sensitive environments requiring stable voltage, immediate load response, and long runtimes.

Diesel Pro Power supports 3512E gensets with:

• Rebuild kits for scheduled service intervals

• Turbo and intake components for load variation

• Fuel injection rails and replacement injectors

• Control module-compatible senders and gauges

• Crankshaft, camshaft, and timing gear components

3. Oil & Gas Applications

The 3512E’s balance of torque and emissions compliance makes it well-suited for:

• Hydraulic fracturing trailers

• Portable drilling power units

• Mud pump drives

• Coil tubing and cementing systems

• Skid-mounted compressors and generators

Oilfield operators benefit from the engine’s closed-loop fuel management and its ability to perform in dust, altitude, and extreme heat. Diesel Pro Power ensures oilfield uptime with:

• Piston kits and cylinder liners for field rebuilds

• High-pressure fuel injectors and lines

• Sensor harnesses for diagnostics and monitoring

• Camshaft and valvetrain components

• Vibration dampers and balancers

All parts are engineered for heavy-duty use and fast installation.

4. Mining and Material Handling

The 3512E engine is used in:

• Haul trucks with 100+ ton capacity

• Surface drills

• Crusher and screening plant drives

• Dewatering pump stations

• Mobile conveyor systems

With long maintenance intervals and excellent performance in dust-heavy environments, the 3512E allows mines to consolidate horsepower without increasing engine count.

Common aftermarket parts include:

• Turbochargers built for altitude compensation

• Oil filtration kits with bypass valves

• Cooling system components

• Crankcase breather elements and covers

• Full in-frame rebuild kits

5. Industrial and Construction Equipment

The Caterpillar 3512E engine is integrated into:

• Foundation drillers

• Tunnel boring machines

• High-volume cement batch plants

• Crane operations and lifting systems

• Industrial water or chemical pumping solutions

These applications require emissions certification, continuous load handling, and minimized idle consumption. Diesel Pro Power’s aftermarket support includes:

• Fuel filter assemblies

• Electronic governor linkages

• Camshaft kits and rocker arms

• Thermostat housings and coolant valves

• Wire harnesses built to Caterpillar pinouts

6. Government and Emergency Infrastructure

The 3512E engine is frequently found in:

• Public power facilities

• Water treatment plants

• Disaster recovery trailers

• Civil defense and firefighting platforms

• High-priority municipal standby generators

These engines must be ready to start in seconds, meet emissions regulations, and perform under pressure.

Diesel Pro Power ensures fleet and facility managers have access to:

• Starter motors and relay kits

• Oil pressure sensors and RPM senders

• Thermal protection switches

• Aftertreatment sensor replacements

• Wiring harness kits and ECM-compatible connectors

Why Choose Aftermarket Parts for the 3512E?

1. Built to Perform

Our aftermarket parts match or exceed OEM performance. We rigorously vet all suppliers and components for durability, fitment, and regulatory compliance.

2. Lower Total Cost of Ownership

Our parts help reduce per-hour operating costs, especially for companies managing multiple engines across regions.

3. Fast Global Shipping

We ship worldwide—often same-day—to get your engine back online faster and avoid costly downtime.

4. Expert Fitment Assistance

Not sure which aftercooler or injector your specific Tier 4 arrangement requires? Our experts can match parts using engine serials or arrangement numbers.

Final Thoughts

The Caterpillar 3512E is a modern, high-output diesel platform built for long service life, emissions compliance, and intelligent control. Whether it’s propelling a tugboat, driving a drilling rig, or powering a standby genset, this engine delivers where performance and precision are non-negotiable.

At Diesel Pro Power, we supply the aftermarket parts that keep your 3512E operational—backed by fast delivery, unmatched inventory, and technical support from diesel professionals who know Caterpillar engines inside and out.

Trust us to keep your operation running at full power, no matter where your 3512E is working.

Additional Resources

Marine CAT 3512 Component Maintenance Life

Understanding the Caterpillar 3500 Series: What Sets These Engines Apart?

The Legacy of the Caterpillar Marine 3512 Engine: A Retrospective

Caterpillar 3512 vs. 3516: Which One is Right for Your Vessel?

The Importance of Routine Oil Changes for Caterpillar 3512 & 3516 Engines

How Aftercoolers Help Keep Caterpillar 3512 and 3516 Engines Running Cool

Why Caterpillar 3512 and 3516 Engines Dominate the Marine Industry

Caterpillar 3512 Marine Engine: Why It’s a Workhorse in the Marine Industry

Key Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Caterpillar 3512 Running Strong

How to Improve Fuel Efficiency in Your Caterpillar 3512 Marine Engine

Common Issues in Caterpillar 3512 Marine Engines and How to Fix Them

When Should You Rebuild Your Caterpillar 3512 Engine?

Why the Caterpillar 3512 is a Popular Choice for Tugboats and Offshore Vessels

How to Prevent Overheating in the Caterpillar 3512 Marine Engine

How to Extend the Life of Your Caterpillar 3512 Marine Engine

The Caterpillar 3512 Marine Diesel Engine: Its Applications & Its History Video