Perkins 4-108

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Jan 18, 2005
16
Beneteau 405 Adagio
I have a 50hp Perkins 4-108. Someone recently told me that it will run forever at 2200 rpm, but that I will burn it out if I cruise it at 2500rpm. Does anyone know if this is true? Thanks, Ryan
 
B

Bob

Perkins

I had a Perkins 4-108 in my 1972 Coronado 35 many years ago and that engine was fabulous. Although I ran the ICW many hundreds of miles on power alone, I was careful not to overrev or maintain constant high rpm speeds. I do not know if a continuous 2500 would create a disasterous situation for you, but I would certainly not overload the engine for any long duration. With that engine, you may exceed hull speed anyways! I will advise you that I experienced an overheating problem that was solved only after I tore into the cooling system and found a large leaf (seagrape) got past everything and clogged the exchanger. What an experience that was. I beleive the Perkins 4-108 is one of the greatest engines around. Regards Bob
 
Dec 2, 2003
1,637
Hunter 376 Warsash, England --
London Taxis

Ryan, This engine was made for and used in London Taxis. 30 years ago Perkins Chief Engineer loaned me one and we fitted a turbocharger for bench testing. We doubled the power output and the Perkins man went berserk. He said the unit WAS NOT to be overrated. We thought he was having a fit of pique and so just carried on. The engine was un-burstable.
 
Jan 18, 2005
16
Beneteau 405 Adagio
Really?

Donalex, To be clear, are you saying that you think I can drive to the 4-108 to its limit, for extended periods (hours at a time) without any worries? -Ryan
 
Jun 10, 2004
7
Morgan Oi33 Pompano Beach, Fl
Perkins 4.108 reliability

I have a Morgan OI33 with the original 4.108. I run it at 1800 rpm max. That takes the vessel (15,000 lbs) to hull speed. Over 2000 and it will overheat. They are built to last because they deliver power at lower rpm's. The small diesels consistently operate at 3000+. The disadvantage is that perkins will leak oil. Everyone I have ever talked to has that prob. But the longevit is great. Best of luck
 
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