CAT C12

Discussion in 'Trucks [ Eighteen Wheelers ]' started by mtorr, Apr 3, 2009.

  1. mtorr

    mtorr Bobtail Member

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    Apr 3, 2009
    Miami, Florida
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    Hello Guys, I'm new here and I would like some advice. I'm in the process of buying a Peterbilt 387with a CAT C-12 engine, is this a good engine?? My current truck has a 3406 E and I would like to know a bit more about this C-12. I hope to hear from drivers with the same engine. The truck is a 2003 Peterbilt 387 it has a rebuilt engine by Cat with a 3 year warranty. It has 430hp and 10 spd.

    Thank You
     
    Last edited: Apr 4, 2009
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  3. C16KIWI

    C16KIWI Medium Load Member

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    Jun 14, 2008
    New Zealand
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    They are very popular over here with most of them running at 100k lbs gross.
     
  4. mtorr

    mtorr Bobtail Member

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    Apr 3, 2009
    Miami, Florida
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    Thank You for your response, I wish I could hear more about this engine but it seems not many drivers have them. I hope that's not a bad sign.
     
  5. Heavyd

    Heavyd Road Train Member

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    Feb 4, 2009
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    If it has a warranty you will be in good shape. We haven't had that many problems.
     
  6. Bigstretch

    Bigstretch Light Load Member

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    Jun 14, 2008
    NW IL
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    It is a fine engine. We've had a 430hp C12 for about 4 yrs. Depending on the weight you will be pulling, and how fast you want to run, I HIGHLY recommend a 13spd transmission. Being able to split the top side makes a HUGE difference in pulling ability. Have 3.70 gears with ours, and gets 6.5mpg. This is in a day cab T800.

    It has a lot of balls for a 430, but it's no E model in the torque department. Especially if you are used to a 475hp or bigger E. The Jake isn't as strong as the bigger engines, but still works pretty well.

    Ours starts at -4*F without ether, and not being plugged in. It isn't happy about it, but it does start. :)
     
  7. Truck Driver

    Truck Driver Medium Load Member

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    Dec 5, 2007
    Sacramento, CA
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    Most of the tractors my company runs have C-12s in them. Many have over 1 million miles on them. They have decent low-end down to about 1200 rpm and a strong Jake but you won't be passing anyone on the hills with a 10 speed. They aint made anymore which might explain why you don't see to many.
     
  8. Bigstretch

    Bigstretch Light Load Member

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    Jun 14, 2008
    NW IL
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    The C12's aren't being used in road truck anymore. The C13 replaced them. Only per EPA regs. :biggrin_25516:
     
    mtorr Thanks this.
  9. 86ltrain

    86ltrain Bobtail Member

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    Sep 8, 2009
    Deer River, MN
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    Whats the max RPM that you dare run with a C12 when upshifting? I just got one and seems to like to rev a little higher than I expected. Shifts easier then, too...
     
  10. farmermatt

    farmermatt Light Load Member

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    Aug 7, 2009
    Lowry City, MO
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    I take it to about 15-16 most of the time but easily can take it to 1850 if need be mine is govened at 2150 but there is no need to take it that far peak torque is at 1600rpm i think

    I just havnt seen the advantage to taking it higher in the shifts unless you wanna race someone :biggrin_255:

    I am incredibly happy with my c12 it just seems if your running out of power upshifting just grab the next one and let the torque take it on over and cruise at 65 at 1600

    I pull a hopper regional and try to idle very little and have achieved 7+ mpg with it my last check was 7.5 but I'm not gonna brag on that one yet it seems almost a little to good (may be a fluke) i dont know
     
    tnpete Thanks this.
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