Caterpillar 3408C Marine Raw Water Pump & Cooling System Components

The Caterpillar 3408C is a proven powerhouse in the marine industry, powering tugboats, offshore vessels, fishing fleets, ferries, and heavy-duty commercial craft across the globe. Like all high-output diesel engines, its performance and reliability are only as strong as its cooling system. The raw water pump is the lifeline of the 3408C’s marine cooling circuit, ensuring that seawater circulates through heat exchangers to maintain stable engine temperatures under load.

This page provides a complete catalog of Caterpillar 3408C raw water pumps, impellers, zinc anodes, and coolant hoses, along with detailed guidance on maintenance, replacement intervals, and why Diesel Pro Power is the most trusted source for Caterpillar marine engine parts worldwide.

Importance of the Raw Water Pump in the Caterpillar 3408C

Marine engines like the Caterpillar 3408C operate in demanding conditions where heat buildup can quickly compromise performance. The raw water pump prevents overheating by drawing seawater into the cooling circuit, where it passes through heat exchangers to regulate internal engine temperatures.

Without a properly functioning pump:

• Overheating risks rise dramatically, especially under heavy load.

• Lubrication systems can fail due to thermal breakdown of oil.

• Engine life is reduced as cylinders, heads, and pistons face increased stress.

For this reason, maintaining the 3408C’s raw water pump is a critical part of every vessel’s maintenance schedule. Regular inspections, impeller changes, and zinc replacements ensure the cooling system continues to protect the engine in harsh saltwater environments.

Caterpillar 3408C Raw Water Pump Catalog

Marine Water Pump for Caterpillar 3408C

A heavy-duty seawater pump engineered to provide reliable circulation for the Caterpillar 3408C. Built from corrosion-resistant metals, it withstands constant saltwater exposure and continuous operation in marine applications.

• Designed for Caterpillar 3408C cooling configurations

• 2” flange port type for secure fit

• Bronze and stainless-steel materials ensure long life

• Delivers consistent seawater flow under high load

This pump is the central component of the 3408C cooling system and should be replaced or rebuilt at the first signs of reduced flow, unusual noise, or leakage.

Impellers for Caterpillar 3408C

The impeller is the rotating heart of the raw water pump, forcing seawater through the cooling circuit. Over time, impellers wear down, crack, or lose flexibility. For the Caterpillar 3408C, Diesel Pro Power offers high-quality bronze impellers designed for direct replacement.

Impeller – 20 Blade Design

• Key drive inset type for secure mounting

• Dimensions: 5 5/8” diameter × 15/16” height

• 20 blade configuration for smooth water flow

• Designed to reduce cavitation and improve pump efficiency

Impeller – 32 Blade Design

• Marine-grade bronze construction

• 32 finely machined blades for maximum flow

• Built to withstand constant seawater exposure

• Suited for heavy-duty applications where cooling demand is high

Replacing impellers at scheduled intervals ensures the 3408C raw water pump continues to function reliably.

Zinc Anodes for Caterpillar 3408C

Zinc anodes are sacrificial components designed to prevent galvanic corrosion inside the pump and cooling system. By corroding first, zincs protect expensive components like pump housings, heat exchangers, and manifolds.

Diesel Pro Power offers zincs for every configuration of the Caterpillar 3408C cooling system:

• 1/4” NPT zincs – compact size for small ports

• 3/8” NPT zincs – standard marine replacement size

• 1/2” NPT zincs – mid-size for broader protection

• 3/4” NPT zincs – heavy-duty corrosion defense

• 1 1/4” NPT zincs – maximum protection for high-capacity housings

Zincs should be inspected during every service interval and replaced when more than 50% eroded.

Silicone Coolant Hoses for Caterpillar 3408C

Silicone coolant hoses provide flexible, heat-resistant connections throughout the 3408C cooling system. Unlike traditional rubber hoses, silicone resists cracking, swelling, and breakdown caused by constant vibration and saltwater exposure.

Available diameters include:

• 1” ID hose – standard connections, sold in 1 ft lengths

• 1 3/4” ID hose – flexible high-capacity hose

• 1 7/8” ID hose – heat-resistant option for larger connections

• 2” ID hose – designed for maximum volume coolant circulation

Installing silicone hoses ensures leak-free operation and extends maintenance intervals for Caterpillar 3408C cooling systems.

Caterpillar 3408C Marine Cooling System Maintenance

Keeping the raw water pump and associated components in good condition is essential to the long life of the Caterpillar 3408C. Below are best practices for maintaining each part of the cooling system.

Pump Maintenance

• Inspect seals and bearings during every oil change.

• Rebuild or replace pumps showing corrosion, leaks, or bearing noise.

• Flush the pump housing during impeller replacement to clear debris.

Impeller Maintenance

• Replace impellers every 12 months or 250 operating hours.

• Inspect blades for cracks, stiffness, or uneven wear.

• Keep a spare impeller onboard to prevent downtime at sea.

Zinc Replacement

• Inspect zincs at least every 90 days.

• Replace when more than half eroded.

• Always use zincs of the correct NPT thread size for a proper fit.

Hose Replacement

• Inspect hoses every 6 months for cracks or soft spots.

• Replace hoses showing signs of swelling, leaks, or surface damage.

• Upgrade to silicone hoses for extended durability.

Benefits of Aftermarket Cooling Components for the 3408C

While OEM parts are often associated with premium pricing, high-quality aftermarket components provide the same reliability at a more cost-effective price point. Diesel Pro Power specializes in aftermarket Caterpillar 3408C cooling parts that are precision-engineered to meet or exceed OEM standards.

Advantages include:

• Lower overall operating costs

• Availability for older engine models no longer fully supported by Caterpillar dealers

• Faster global shipping from a trusted supplier

• Proven performance in commercial marine environments

Why Buy Your Caterpillar 3408C Raw Water Pump from Diesel Pro Power

When it comes to sourcing critical cooling components for the Caterpillar 3408C, Diesel Pro Power stands apart as the most trusted aftermarket supplier worldwide. With over four decades of experience in marine diesel support, the company provides unmatched reliability, global reach, and technical expertise.

Trusted by 40,000+ Customers Worldwide

From tugboat operators in North America to offshore supply fleets in Asia, Diesel Pro Power has built its reputation on consistent service. More than 40,000 satisfied customers depend on Diesel Pro for Caterpillar engine parts every year.

Global Shipping to 180+ Countries

Downtime costs money. Diesel Pro Power ships orders quickly and provides trackable delivery to more than 180 countries, ensuring your vessel gets back to work as soon as possible.

Complete Cooling Catalog in One Place

Instead of sourcing from multiple suppliers, Caterpillar 3408C operators can find everything they need in one catalog—pumps, impellers, zincs, hoses, gaskets, clamps, and more. This reduces procurement time and simplifies maintenance scheduling.

Exclusive Marine & Industrial Focus

Unlike general distributors that split their attention across automotive and light-duty markets, Diesel Pro Power is dedicated exclusively to marine and industrial engines. This specialization ensures every part we carry is designed for heavy-duty service.

Expert Technical Support

Not sure which impeller fits your pump? Need help with zinc replacement schedules? Diesel Pro’s experienced team provides step-by-step guidance for Caterpillar 3408C owners, making maintenance easier and more efficient.

Long-Term Value and Reliability

By choosing Diesel Pro Power, operators gain confidence that every part meets strict standards for fit, durability, and performance. Combined with expert support and fast shipping, this creates long-term value for commercial marine operations.