Detroit 16V71 Parts and Information

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Detroit Diesel 16V71 Turbo – Engine Specifications & Applications

Overview

The Detroit Diesel 16V71 Turbocharged engine, often designated as 16V71T, is the most powerful configuration within the classic Series 71 two-stroke engine family. Known for its exceptional power-to-weight ratio, mechanical reliability, and robust turbocharged performance, the 16V71T is a V16 engine used in some of the world’s most demanding marine, military, and industrial operations. With turbocharging and a dual-blower configuration, it can deliver over 900 horsepower in high-output setups, making it a top choice for large displacement applications.

At Diesel Pro Power, we supply premium aftermarket support for the Detroit 16V71 Turbo, including rebuild kits, cylinder heads, turbochargers, exhaust elbows, cooling components, and more. Below is a complete breakdown of technical specifications and real-world usage examples to assist fleet managers, mechanics, and operators in selecting and maintaining this diesel powerhouse.

Engine Specifications – Detroit Diesel 16V71 Turbo

Engine Configuration and Design

Engine Type: Two-stroke diesel
Configuration: 16 cylinders in a 90° V configuration
Displacement: 1,136 cubic inches (18.62 liters)
Bore x Stroke: 4.25 in x 5.00 in (108 mm x 127 mm)
Aspiration: Turbocharged with Roots-type blower assist
Cylinder Heads: 8 two-cylinder heads
Crankshaft Bearings: 9 main bearings
Firing Order: 1R-5R-3R-7R-2R-6R-4R-8R-1L-5L-3L-7L-2L-6L-4L-8L
Compression Ratio: ~16.5:1 to 17:1 depending on variant

This V16 engine design provides massive torque and a broad powerband. It uses two blowers with one or two turbochargers, depending on the application and power rating.

Performance Ratings

Horsepower Range: 750 to 1,050 HP @ 2,100 RPM
Peak Torque: 2,400 to 2,800 lb-ft @ 1,200 to 1,600 RPM
Governed Speed: 2,100 to 2,300 RPM (varies by governor setup)
Idle Speed: Typically 600–650 RPM

Horsepower and torque depend heavily on injector size (e.g., N70, N75), turbo model, and RPM settings.

Fuel System and Air Induction

Fuel Injection: Mechanical unit injectors per cylinder
Turbocharger: Single or dual turbochargers (Garrett, Rajay, or equivalent)
Blowers: Dual Roots blowers for intake charging
Fuel Consumption: ~0.42 to 0.46 lb/HP/hr under full load
Air-to-Fuel Ratio: 18:1 to 20:1

Turbocharging increases efficiency and power density while maintaining the engine’s mechanical simplicity.

Lubrication and Cooling

Oil Capacity: Approximately 14 to 18 gallons (53 to 68 liters)
Oil Type: SAE 40 or 15W-40 multigrade
Oil Pressure (Operating): 40 to 60 psi
Cooling System: Gear-driven centrifugal water pump
Coolant Capacity: 10 to 14 gallons depending on heat exchanger and plumbing
Operating Temperature: 170–190°F

Dimensions and Weight

Overall Length: ~100 inches
Overall Width: ~50 inches
Overall Height: ~55 inches
Dry Weight: Approximately 4,500 to 4,800 lbs

The engine's size demands reinforced engine beds and substantial mountings, especially in marine and industrial settings.

Applications of the Detroit Diesel 16V71 Turbocharged Engine

Marine Applications

The 16V71T is widely used in commercial marine operations requiring high torque and fast throttle response under load. Thanks to its ability to produce 1,000 HP in a relatively compact form, it is favored in vessels operating in open water or under load-intensive conditions.

Common Marine Uses

Large tugboats and push boats
Offshore supply vessels and service boats
Dredging vessels and hopper barges
Commercial fishing trawlers operating offshore
Government patrol and interdiction craft
High-tonnage pilot and ferry boats

Many configurations feature twin 16V71 Turbo engines, delivering over 2,000 total horsepower to marine gearboxes such as Twin Disc or Allison, also supported through Diesel Pro Power’s parts catalog.

Industrial Applications

In land-based operations, the 16V71 Turbo is a reliable power unit for heavy industrial equipment where high horsepower and low-end torque are essential. These systems often run continuously or under peak demand cycles.

Common Industrial Uses

Large water pumping stations for agriculture or mining
Oilfield power units for drilling or hydraulic fracturing
Rock crushers and large aggregate handling equipment
Portable industrial generator sets (prime power)
Emergency fire pumps and water suppression systems
High-volume air compressors for tunneling and heavy construction

Its durability in extended-load conditions and relative serviceability make it a go-to engine in industrial powerhouses across remote regions of the Americas, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.

Military and Defense Applications

The 16V71T has historically been used in large-scale tactical and support vehicles where extreme output is necessary in variable conditions.

Common Military Uses

Armored recovery vehicles (ARVs)
Amphibious transport platforms
Mobile radar and communications command centers
Field-deployable power generation systems
Marine landing craft used by the U.S. Navy and allied forces

While no longer used in modern active-duty military production, surplus 16V71T units are commonly repowered and resold into civilian marine and industrial fleets.

Repowered and Custom Installations

Due to its size and signature exhaust sound, the 16V71 Turbo has earned a niche in the repower and customization space, especially in applications that benefit from the prestige and performance of a V16 Detroit.

Common Repower Uses

Luxury yacht restorations
Classic offshore racing vessels
Exhibition hot rod trucks or tractor pullers
Converted military craft for commercial use
High-horsepower land-based generators for events or mining camps

While installation and cooling requirements are more demanding than smaller Series 71 engines, experienced operators value the mechanical predictability, part availability, and aftermarket support available for this engine.

See 16V71 Natural (Non-Turbo) Engine Parts for Sale

See 16V71 Turbo Engine Parts for Sale