Parts for Detroit Diesel 16V71 Non-Turbo

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Detroit Diesel 16V71 Naturally Aspirated – Engine Specifications & Applications

Overview

The Detroit Diesel 16V71 Naturally Aspirated engine—commonly referred to as the 16V71N or 16V71NA—is the naturally aspirated version of the largest engine in the iconic Detroit Diesel Series 71 family. With sixteen cylinders arranged in a 90-degree V configuration, the 16V71N delivers reliable power through a rugged, mechanically simple design. Without a turbocharger, this two-stroke diesel engine depends entirely on a Roots-type blower to force air into the cylinders, making it a go-to option for heavy-duty marine, industrial, and generator applications where consistent performance and long-term serviceability are top priorities.

Diesel Pro Power provides full aftermarket support for the 16V71N, including overhaul kits, fuel injectors, water pumps, gaskets, cylinder heads, and cooling components. The following guide outlines detailed engine specifications and lists typical applications for this powerful naturally aspirated engine.

Engine Specifications – Detroit Diesel 16V71 Naturally Aspirated

Core Engine Design

Engine Type: Two-stroke diesel
Cylinder Configuration: 16 cylinders, V-type (90°)
Displacement: 1,136 cubic inches (18.62 liters)
Bore x Stroke: 4.25 in x 5.00 in (108 mm x 127 mm)
Crankshaft Bearings: 9 main bearings
Cylinder Heads: 8 total (2 cylinders per head)
Firing Order: 1R-5R-3R-7R-2R-6R-4R-8R-1L-5L-3L-7L-2L-6L-4L-8L
Rotation: Standard or opposite (marine reversible)

This robust architecture allows for continuous-duty operation and delivers substantial torque at lower RPM ranges, ideal for demanding industrial and marine conditions.

Fuel System and Aspiration

Fuel Delivery: Mechanical unit injectors (one per cylinder)
Aspiration: Roots-type blower (no turbocharger)
Compression Ratio: Approximately 17:1
Injector Types: Typically N55 or N60; larger sizes may be used for higher output
Fuel Consumption: 0.44 to 0.48 lb/HP/hr (load dependent)
Air-to-Fuel Ratio: ~18:1 (typical)

The naturally aspirated configuration eliminates the complexity of a turbo system while providing reliable air induction through the twin Roots blowers.

Power and Torque Output

Horsepower Range: 650 to 800 HP @ 2,100 RPM (dependent on injectors and governor setup)
Peak Torque: Approximately 2,100 to 2,400 lb-ft @ 1,200 to 1,600 RPM
Governed Speed: 2,100 RPM standard (adjustable to 2,300 RPM with appropriate governors)
Idle Speed: 600–650 RPM

Naturally aspirated 16V71s produce less horsepower than their turbocharged counterparts but are favored in conditions that require predictable throttle response and fewer mechanical components.

Lubrication and Cooling System

Oil Capacity: 14 to 18 gallons (53 to 68 liters)
Lubrication Type: Full-flow gear-driven pump with oil cooler
Normal Oil Pressure: 40 to 60 psi
Coolant System: Water-cooled using heat exchanger or direct keel-cooling
Coolant Capacity: 10 to 14 gallons (depending on configuration)
Operating Temperature: 170–190°F regulated via thermostats
Water Pump: Gear-driven centrifugal type, marine or industrial rated

The lubrication and cooling systems are designed for extended use in heavy-duty settings with minimal intervention.

Dimensions and Weight

Length: ~100 inches
Width: ~50 inches
Height: ~55 inches
Dry Weight: ~4,300 to 4,600 lbs (configuration-dependent)

Its size makes it suitable for large installations where space and mounting support are available. Common installations include vessels with heavy displacement or land-based equipment with reinforced subframes.

Applications of the Detroit Diesel 16V71 Naturally Aspirated Engine

Marine Applications

The 16V71N is a trusted powerplant in the commercial marine industry, where steady RPM operation and continuous-duty cycles are essential. It is favored in vessels where simplicity and reliability take precedence over raw speed or acceleration.

Typical Marine Use Cases

Push boats and towboats operating on rivers and canals
Harbor and docking tugs with low-speed maneuverability
Commercial fishing trawlers and scallop boats
Research vessels used for long-range deployments
Marine dredging equipment and barge pusher units
Liveaboard or expedition trawlers that prioritize redundancy and serviceability

These engines are often installed in twin configurations to generate combined outputs exceeding 1,300 HP. The lack of a turbo system reduces thermal stress and allows for more stable operation in slow-to-medium-speed marine propulsionenvironments.

Industrial and Stationary Equipment

The naturally aspirated 16V71 is heavily used in stationary or semi-mobile industrial applications that require reliable, long-term power output. Thanks to its mechanical simplicity, it's ideal in regions where electronic diagnostic equipment is scarce or downtime must be avoided.

Typical Industrial Use Cases

Prime and standby diesel generator sets
Water transfer and flood control pumping stations
High-volume fire pump systems for industrial safety
Frac water and fluid handling systems in oilfields
Rock crushers and aggregate processing machines
Large air compressors for mining or tunneling applications
Cement or asphalt batching plant engines

In these environments, the 16V71N’s durability and low-maintenance operation make it cost-effective for long-haul, multi-hour cycles. It thrives in operations where power stability is more important than variable performance.

Military and Government Applications

The 16V71N was commonly used in military equipment due to its robust architecture and ability to run without electronics or turbo components. Its role has since shifted to surplus engines that have been repurposed for civilian use, especially in marine and industrial settings.

Typical Government Uses

Mobile command post power units
Remote communication base generators
Field-deployed firewater and diesel pumping systems
Military cargo barges and patrol craft propulsion
Amphibious transport systems (e.g., floating bridge support units)

In many developing regions and small coastal countries, surplus military 16V71N engines have found second lives repowered into fishing fleets or industrial systems.

Repower Projects and Custom Installations

The naturally aspirated 16V71 remains a favorite among custom builders and restoration professionals who value its iconic sound, legacy performance, and the widespread availability of aftermarket support.

Typical Repower Use Cases

Yacht and classic vessel restorations
Exhibition trucks, hot rod semis, or tractor pullers
Off-grid or event-based generator systems
Industrial-themed attractions or static displays
Civil defense emergency preparedness power stations

Though it requires significant space and structure, the engine’s longevity and mechanical simplicity make it ideal for custom platforms where uptime and serviceability are key considerations.

Summary: Key Use Cases by Sector

Sector	Common 16V71N Applications
Marine	Push boats, fishing trawlers, harbor tugs, expedition yachts
Industrial	Water pumps, generators, crushers, compressors, oilfield units
Military/Government	Cargo vessels, field pumps, power units, surplus repowers
Custom/Restoration	Yachts, exhibition rigs, hot rods, off-grid gensets

Why Choose the 16V71 Naturally Aspirated Engine

Advantages

Mechanically Simple: No turbocharger, ECM, or high-pressure electronics
Field-Serviceable: Repairs can be done with basic tools and technician experience
Consistent Power: Excellent for steady load profiles and extended runtime
Global Availability: Parts and rebuild kits widely available through aftermarket support
Legendary Durability: Proven to last tens of thousands of hours when maintained properly

Considerations

Lower Horsepower: Less suited for dynamic acceleration or high-speed applications
Larger Footprint: Requires significant space for installation and cooling
Noise Level: Noted for its characteristic two-stroke diesel sound, which may be a concern in noise-sensitive environments