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The Detroit Diesel 3-53 Turbocharged engine is a compact yet powerful member of the famed 53 Series. With three cylinders and a total displacement of 159 cubic inches (2.6 liters), the turbocharged version of the 3-53 offers enhanced power output, improved fuel efficiency, and greater torque—all within a lightweight, versatile package. Turbocharging transforms the already reliable 3-53 engine into a more capable solution for demanding applications, especially where space and weight are at a premium. Operators in marine, industrial, military, and off-road settings rely on the 3-53 turbocharged variant for its balance of performance and maintainability. Diesel Pro Power offers a complete line of aftermarket turbocharger systems and support parts for the Detroit 3-53 Turbo, helping customers extend engine life without the high cost of OEM replacements. Specification Value Engine Configuration Inline 3-cylinder, two-stroke diesel Displacement 159 cu in (2.6 liters) Bore x Stroke 3.875 in x 4.5 in Aspiration Turbocharged Rated Horsepower ~100–130 HP @ 2,800 RPM (varies by spec) Torque Up to 230 lb-ft Compression Ratio ~17:1 Cooling System Water-cooled Dry Weight ~1,000–1,100 lbs Oil Capacity ~8 quarts Blower Type Roots-type (used in combination with turbo) The turbocharged version maintains the engine’s classic two-stroke architecture, using a turbocharger to improve volumetric efficiency, deliver better power-to-weight performance, and reduce smoke under load. Boosted Horsepower: Up to 40% increase compared to naturally aspirated models Improved Fuel Economy: Better combustion leads to less wasted fuel Reduced Exhaust Smoke: More complete burning of fuel Faster Throttle Response: More air means quicker power delivery Compact Power Package: Ideal for retrofits and tight installations Thanks to its lightweight profile and dependable design, the Detroit 3-53 Turbo is ideal for: Commercial Fishing Boats Tenders and Utility Vessels Auxiliary Marine Generators Hydraulic Power Units on Deck The added power from turbocharging is especially valuable for small vessels that require extra thrust or operate under continuous load conditions. The turbocharged Detroit 3-53 is commonly used in: Hydraulic Pumps and Skid Units Air Compressors and Welding Rigs Forestry Equipment Small Mining Loaders and Dozers Its combination of low weight and strong torque makes it ideal for mobile applications in rugged terrain. This engine has been used in various U.S. military applications, often turbocharged to meet demanding performance standards in: Mule Trucks and Light Tactical Vehicles Mobile Pumping Stations Support Generators for Radar or Communications Units Turbocharging provides extra torque and quicker responsiveness, essential for mission-critical field equipment.   Detroit Diesel 3-53 Component Maintenance Life General Information and Cautions for Detroit Diesel 53 Series Engines (3-53, 4-53, 6V53 & 8V53) Two-Cycle Engine Principles for Detroit Diesel 53 Series Engines (3-53, 4-53, 6V53 & 8V53) Engine Components: In-Depth Analysis of Detroit Diesel 53 Series Engines (3-53, 4-53, 6V53, & 8V53) Lubrication and Cooling Systems For Detroit Diesel 53 Series Engines (3-53, 4-53, 6V53 & 8V53) Operation and Tune-Up For Detroit Diesel 53 Series Engines (3-53, 4-53, 6V53 & 8V53)
353 Turbo Detroit Diesel Parts
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Loading... Engine Specifications & Applications of the Detroit Diesel 3-53 Turbocharged Engine
Overview of the Detroit Diesel 3-53 Turbocharged Engine
Technical Specifications of the Turbocharged Detroit 3-53
Key Advantages of Turbocharging the Detroit 3-53
Common Applications of the Turbocharged 3-53 Engine
Marine Use
Industrial and Off-Highway Equipment
Military and Government
Additional Resources
Practical Guide to Servicing Your Detroit Diesel 53 Series Engine (353, 453, 6V53, 8V53)
