Caterpillar
Caterpillar 3608
3600 Series
Caterpillar 3608 — 147.8 L V8 turbocharged-aftercooled diesel generator engine (Cat 3600 series). 2860 ekW standby / 2600 ekW prime @ 50 Hz, 2660 / 2420 ekW @ 60 Hz; medium-speed V8 (280×300 mm); marketed as C280-8 (IMO/EPA Tier 2) marine. Source: Cat 2024 Electric Power Ratings Guide.
Overhaul & repair parts- Manufacturer files
- 1 datasheet
- Last updated
- 2026-06-11
- Package route
- diesel generator sets
- Standby Power · 50 Hz
- 3,575 kVA
- Electrical Output
- 2,860 kWe
- Cylinders
- V8
- Displacement
- 147.8 L
- Rated Speed
- 1,000 / 1,200 RPM
Power Ratings
kWm = mechanical shaft power · kWe = electrical output · kVA = kWe ÷ 0.8 pf
50 Hz1000 RPM
| kWm | kWe | kVA | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prime Power | — | 2600 | 3250 |
| Standby Power | — | 2860 | 3575 |
60 Hz1200 RPM
| kWm | kWe | kVA | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prime Power | — | 2420 | 3025 |
| Standby Power | — | 2660 | 3325 |
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Caterpillar 3608 overhaul & repair parts
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Caterpillar 3608 generator set context
The Caterpillar 3608 is listed here as a diesel generator-drive engine for 50 Hz and 60 Hz generator sets, with a headline 3,575 kVA / 2,860 kWe / standby rating. Use this page to compare the published engine output, electrical kWe/kVA ratings, emissions level, datasheet availability, and neighboring models before specifying an alternator, controller, enclosure, voltage, and compliance package.
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Technical Specifications
| Brand | Caterpillar |
| Model | 3608 |
| Series | 3600 Series |
| Configuration | V8 |
| Cylinders | 8 |
| Displacement | 147.8 L |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Ignition Type | Compression Ignition |
| Cooling Method | Liquid-Cooled |
| Emissions Standard | U.S. EPA Tier 2 |
| Country of Origin | United States |
Frequently asked questions
What is the power output of the Caterpillar 3608?
The Caterpillar 3608 is rated at 3,575 kVA standby / 3,250 kVA prime at 50 Hz (1,000 rpm); and 3,325 kVA standby / 3,025 kVA prime at 60 Hz (1,200 rpm).
Does the 3608 run at 50 Hz or 60 Hz?
The Caterpillar 3608 is available for both 50 Hz (1,000 rpm) and 60 Hz (1,200 rpm).
What fuel does the Caterpillar 3608 use?
The Caterpillar 3608 is a diesel generator-set engine.
What is the displacement and cylinder configuration of the 3608?
The Caterpillar 3608 is a V8 (8-cylinder) engine with a displacement of 147.8 L.
What emissions information is listed for the 3608?
This record lists U.S. EPA Tier 2 for the Caterpillar 3608. Confirm the exact engine family, model year, configuration and applicable manufacturer certification documents before specifying it for a regulated project. A database label does not establish certification of a complete generator package.
What is the catalog status of the Caterpillar 3608?
The Caterpillar 3608 is marked active in this database. Confirm current production and availability with the manufacturer; catalog status is not a live supply check.
Are reference documents available for the 3608?
This page links reference documents for the Caterpillar 3608. Check each document's title, model coverage, revision and rating conditions before using it for selection.