Parts for Caterpillar 3512C

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Engine Specifications & Applications of the Caterpillar 3512C Engine

Introduction

The Caterpillar 3512C engine is a Tier-certified, electronically controlled, V12 diesel platform engineered for extreme-duty performance in the most demanding environments. With outputs ranging from 1,500 to over 2,000 horsepower and full EPA and IMO emissions compliance, the 3512C represents the modern evolution of Caterpillar’s proven 3500 series—bringing together high torque, intelligent fuel efficiency, and industry-grade durability.

Whether used in a marine propulsion system, standby generator, or field power unit, the 3512C provides operators with smooth throttle response, high power density, and long service intervals. Diesel Pro Power supports this engine with an extensive inventory of premium aftermarket parts designed to meet or exceed OEM standards—delivering fast shipping, technical expertise, and global reliability.

Engine Specifications

Core Configuration

Engine Model: Caterpillar 3512C
Engine Type: V-12, 4-stroke cycle, 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, SCAC (Separate Circuit Aftercooling)
Fuel System: Electronic Unit Injection (EUI)
Control System: ADEM™ A3 or ADEM™ A4
Flywheel Rotation: Counterclockwise (viewed from flywheel end)

Performance

Horsepower Range: 1,500–2,250 bhp (1,119–1,678 kW)
Max Torque: 6,000+ lb-ft depending on duty cycle
Rated Speed: 1,200–1,800 RPM
Fuel Consumption: ~0.32–0.35 lbs/hp/hr (load-dependent)
Emissions Compliance: EPA Tier 2 / Tier 3 and IMO II configurations available

Dimensions & Weight

Length: ~130–137 inches (3,300–3,480 mm)
Width: ~76–80 inches (1,930–2,030 mm)
Height: ~87–93 inches (2,210–2,360 mm)
Dry Weight: ~14,000–15,200 lbs (6,350–6,900 kg)

Cooling & Lubrication

Oil Capacity: 65–80 liters (17.2–21 gallons)
Cooling System Capacity: ~100 liters (26 gallons)
Oil Type: SAE 15W-40 (ECF-2/3 compliant)
Cooling Type: SCAC system with separate aftercooler and expansion tank

Applications of the Caterpillar 3512C Engine

Built to serve in regulated and rugged sectors, the 3512C is a favorite among marine engineers, generator operators, and energy professionals alike. Its robust mechanical base paired with advanced electronics and emissions compliance allows it to serve reliably in the most demanding mission-critical operations.

Diesel Pro Power supports these applications with a full catalog of aftermarket parts for the 3512C—ready to ship worldwide with expert fitment guidance and warranty-backed quality.

1. Marine Propulsion and Onboard Systems

Marine Propulsion

The 3512C is the powerplant of choice for:

Tugboats
Crew boats
Offshore supply vessels (OSVs)
Large fishing trawlers
Pilot vessels
Inland river push boats

Its electronically controlled fuel mapping and turbocharged performance allow for precision throttle response in congested harbors and long-haul duty cycles alike. With full IMO II compliance, the 3512C is approved for operation in regulated waters including U.S. coastal zones and international ports.

Diesel Pro Power supports marine propulsion operators with aftermarket:

Raw water pumps
Aftercoolers and SCAC circuit components
Marine-grade cylinder head gaskets
Throttle cables and electronic actuator parts
Turbochargers matched to your duty cycle and altitude

Marine Auxiliary Systems

In addition to propulsion, the 3512C is often used to power:

Marine generator sets
Hydraulic winch motors
Refrigeration units
HVAC and climate control systems
Emergency fire suppression pumps

We stock aftermarket parts critical to marine auxiliary systems, including:

Oil coolers
Thermostat kits
Starter motors
Camshafts and timing gears
Sensor kits for monitoring pressure, temperature, and RPM

2. Power Generation

The Caterpillar 3512C is used in gensets for:

Emergency backup systems
Standby power in data centers and airports
Prime power in off-grid locations
Continuous duty generation in water plants and government facilities

The 3512C provides load acceptance, frequency stability, and fuel efficiency, especially important for operations that cannot afford downtime. Tier 2 and Tier 3 versions support international installation requirements.

Diesel Pro supports power generation customers with:

Full rebuild kits for continuous or standby configurations
Fuel actuators and electronic throttle controls
Sensor harnesses compatible with ADEM A3/A4
Crankshaft assemblies and connecting rod kits
Air filters, exhaust elbows, and coolant lines

Whether your 3512C is in a 50Hz or 60Hz application, our parts support both RPM ranges with precision-fit solutions.

3. Oilfield and Energy Sector

The 3512C is heavily deployed in:

Frac pump trailers
Rotary drilling rigs
Mud pump drives
Trailer-mounted generator systems
Skid-mounted field compressors

The engine’s torque curve, field serviceability, and SCAC cooling system make it ideal for harsh terrain, high altitude, and extreme temperatures.

Diesel Pro provides aftermarket parts optimized for the oil and gas sector, including:

Fuel rail and injector systems
Valve train components and rocker arm kits
Top-end gasket kits for quarterly or annual service
High-flow oil pumps and bypass valves
Crankshaft dampers and vibration control hardware

All components are engineered to meet oilfield performance expectations while cutting costs and lead time.

4. Mining and Quarry Equipment

The Caterpillar 3512C is also deployed in:

Large-capacity haul trucks
High-tonnage wheel loaders
Conveyor and crushing systems
Portable rock crushers
Dust suppression pump platforms

With thousands of engines in service at quarries, copper mines, and aggregate sites worldwide, aftermarket part availability is essential for daily operations.

Diesel Pro Power supports mining operations with:

Rebuild kits designed for abrasive conditions
Air intake elbows and pre-cleaner assemblies
Thermal protection kits for turbo systems
Oil filter conversion kits
High-durability pistons and liner kits

We serve mines from North America to South America, Africa, and Australia with reliable global shipping and expert support.

5. Heavy Industrial Machinery

In heavy construction and large-scale industrial operations, the 3512C powers:

Concrete batch plants
Tunnel boring machines
Rock drills and blasting compressors
Material handling cranes
Water pumping and flood control systems

Operators in these industries value:

Emissions compliance
Electronic fuel optimization
Fast throttle response
Durability under variable load profiles

Our aftermarket catalog includes:

Sensor kits and electronic modules
Oil coolers and water pumps
Turbocharger and manifold rebuild kits
Control cable assemblies and hardware
Complete top-end service kits

6. Government, Emergency & Defense Power Systems

The 3512C also supports:

Municipal power systems
Wastewater treatment plants
Disaster recovery power trailers
Military field generator sets
Civil defense pump stations

When reliability under pressure is mission-critical, the 3512C offers unmatched performance and predictable maintenance. Diesel Pro Power makes it easy to maintain government fleet assets with:

Electronic shutdown and alarm modules
Crankshaft positioning sensors
Emergency starter motors and gear sets
Coolant flow valves and tank assemblies
Thermal sensors and gauge senders

All parts are in-stock, supported by warranty, and compatible with global emissions specs.

Why Choose Aftermarket Parts for the 3512C?

1. Built to OEM Specs (or Better)

Every component Diesel Pro Power offers is built to match the factory requirements for fit, flow, pressure, and performance.

2. Significant Cost Savings

Avoid OEM markup. Our parts reduce your per-hour cost of operation without cutting corners on quality.

3. Fast Global Shipping

We fulfill orders fast and offer worldwide delivery—no matter where your engine is running.

4. Tech Support from Real Experts

Our team helps you identify the correct parts, cross-reference numbers, and avoid compatibility issues—especially for ADEM-controlled engines.

Final Thoughts

The Caterpillar 3512C engine represents the future of regulated high-horsepower diesel systems. Whether you’re powering a tugboat, a frac trailer, or an industrial plant, the 3512C offers rock-solid reliability, precision control, and the emissions compliance your operation demands.

Diesel Pro Power helps extend the life and improve the cost-efficiency of your 3512C engine with a full line of aftermarket parts—from turbochargers to oil pumps, control cables to injector kits.

We’re ready to help you reduce downtime and get back to full power—faster, smarter, and more affordably.