Stewart & Stevenson Services, Inc. recently combined efforts with Detroit Diesel and Hollywood Marine to test a new four-cycle V12-2000 series commercial marine workboat engine package.
Advantages of the more compact and durable 2000 series four-cycle engine, include reduced fuel and oil consumption and a noticeably quieter engine due to its triple-wall exhaust system. The new style triple-wall exhaust system also reduces engine room heat.
Another advantage of the new series 2000 series engine is that the engine is emission certified, and will meet the future emission requirements of the year 2000 and beyond.
"The new Detroit Diesel four-cycle engine is an environmentally friendly marine package, which offers unsurpassed dependability, low operational costs and high customer satisfaction," said Don Gollott, of Stewart & Stevenson's marine engine sales. "Due to increased pollution controls and competition in inland marine transportation, an engine's fuel economy, ease of maintenance and durability is going to be the true measure of success for any engine."
Willie Monson, Hollywood Marine, Inc.'s maintenance and repair department general manager, said, "The 2000 series reduces the rpm and achieves the desired tow speed, plus reduces the fuel burn dramatically. On average, the engine's rpm hit 1,600, when using about 16 gal. per engine per hour, and running just under eight mph, all the while, pushing 60,000 barrel tows."
Already aboard towboat J.E. O'Donnell, the 2000 series engine is currently propelling O'Donnell along Texas and Louisiana waterways. The pushboat's 24-year veteran captain, Ray Hubbird, claims the engine's performance is nothing sort of remarkable.
"As soon as you back away from the dock, you notice the engine's increased horsepower. But the first thing you notice about the engine is the quietness. We're on the boat 24 hours a day, so when you can hear a television show, or have a converation, you've got a happier crew," Captain Hubbird said.
As for the engine's low operating costs, the new 12V-2000 engine's oil consumption runs about a half-gal. for two engines every 24 hours, and fuel consumption hits 16 gal. per engine per hour.
"I can definitely see how the engine will pay for itself after awhile," said Captain Hubbird.
Aside from their increased cost-effectiveness and durability, the V12-2000 series engines are equipped with
Detroit Diesel DDEC control systems and are year 2000 compliant.