Description
Explore the flexible specs of the Perkins M300C Marine diesel engine 300hp for pricing and inquiries on this powerful marine engine.
The Perkins M300C marine diesel engine is a powerhouse of reliability, strength, and performance engineered specifically for demanding marine applications. With a rated output of 300 horsepower (224 kW), the M300C represents one of the most robust and versatile propulsion solutions in the Perkins marine range. Designed to deliver dependable performance in both commercial and leisure vessels, this engine embodies Perkins’ reputation for durability, efficiency, and worldwide service support.
Built on Perkins’ proven 6-cylinder platform, the M300C is a turbocharged and aftercooled diesel engine that balances high power density with fuel economy. Its compact design allows for flexible installation in various hull configurations—making it ideal for fishing boats, workboats, patrol craft, passenger ferries, and large sailing yachts. It offers excellent torque characteristics at low to mid-range speeds, providing quick acceleration, reliable cruising, and optimal fuel efficiency even under heavy load.
In this detailed review, we will explore the M300C’s product description, core features, and technical specifications to give you a complete understanding of this marine diesel engine’s capabilities.
Product Description
The Perkins M300C is a 6.6-litre inline six-cylinder, four-stroke marine diesel engine that has been marine-adapted from Perkins’ renowned industrial base engines. Its robust cast iron block and cylinder head are engineered to endure the harsh marine environment, offering exceptional durability and long service life. The engine employs direct fuel injection with a mechanically governed rotary fuel pump, ensuring consistent and efficient combustion across the full power band.
A water-cooled exhaust manifold and freshwater cooling system protect the engine from corrosive seawater exposure, while the heat exchanger and raw water pump maintain optimal operating temperatures. The engine features a turbocharger combined with an air-to-water aftercooler, which increases the air density entering the cylinders—improving combustion efficiency, reducing emissions, and delivering the high power output expected from a 300 HP engine.
The M300C is designed to be compact and service-friendly. All key maintenance points, such as the oil filter, fuel filters, dipstick, and seawater pump impeller, are mounted on one side for easy access, even in tight engine compartments. The engine also incorporates vibration isolators and a high-performance mounting system to minimize noise and vibration transmission to the hull, enhancing onboard comfort.
Key Features
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High Power Output: Delivers 300 HP (224 kW) at 2,800 rpm, ensuring ample propulsion power for mid- to large-sized vessels.
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Turbocharged & Aftercooled: Provides increased air intake density for better combustion efficiency, resulting in improved performance and lower specific fuel consumption.
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Robust Construction: Cast iron block and cylinder head for maximum durability in harsh marine conditions.
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Compact & Serviceable Design: Streamlined layout for easy installation and maintenance, with all service points on one side.
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Efficient Cooling System: Freshwater cooling with heat exchanger, seawater pump, and thermostatic regulation ensures optimal engine temperature and corrosion protection.
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Low Vibration and Noise: Balanced rotating assembly and resilient engine mounts minimize vibration and structural-borne noise.
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Emission Compliance: Meets international marine emission regulations while maintaining fuel efficiency and reliability.
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Global Support: Backed by Perkins’ extensive worldwide service and parts network for dependable after-sales support.
Technical Specifications
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Model | Perkins M300C |
| Engine Type | 4-stroke, inline 6-cylinder, marine diesel |
| Displacement | 6.6 litres |
| Bore x Stroke | 105 mm x 127 mm |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged and aftercooled (air-to-water) |
| Cooling System | Freshwater cooling with heat exchanger and raw water pump |
| Rated Power | 300 HP (224 kW) |
| Rated Speed | 2,800 rpm |
| Max Torque | Approx. 980 Nm at 2,000 rpm |
| Fuel System | Direct injection with mechanical rotary fuel pump |
| Governor Type | Mechanical |
| Lubrication System | Wet sump with gear-driven oil pump |
| Oil Capacity | Approx. 16 litres |
| Fuel Consumption | Approx. 60–65 litres/hour at full load |
| Starting System | 12V or 24V electric starter motor |
| Alternator | 12V / 70A or 24V / 55A |
| Weight (Dry) | Approx. 750 kg |
| Dimensions (L × W × H) | 1450 mm × 800 mm × 950 mm |
| Rotation (viewed from flywheel end) | Counterclockwise |
| Mounting System | Flexible engine mounts with vibration isolators |
| Exhaust System | Water-cooled exhaust manifold |
| Air Intake | Dry-type air filter |
| Emission Compliance | IMO and EPA marine emission standards |
Performance and Reliability
The M300C’s design emphasizes sustained power delivery and reliability in demanding marine duty cycles. Its high torque at low and mid-range speeds makes it particularly suited to vessels that require strong pulling power and fast acceleration from a standstill. The turbocharger and aftercooler system enable the engine to maintain high performance even under continuous heavy loads, while also reducing thermal stress on the engine components.
Perkins has incorporated advanced sealing, gaskets, and anti-corrosion materials to protect the engine from saltwater and humidity. The cooling system’s freshwater circuit isolates critical engine internals from direct seawater contact, extending service life and reducing maintenance frequency.
Additionally, the M300C is engineered with a balance of performance and fuel economy. Its efficient combustion system minimizes fuel burn, enabling longer operating range between refueling, which is particularly valuable for commercial vessels where operating costs are a key consideration.
Installation and Maintenance
The Perkins M300C’s relatively compact footprint allows for easy installation even in engine rooms with limited space. Its one-side service access makes routine maintenance straightforward, minimizing downtime and operational disruption. Perkins also provides a comprehensive set of optional accessories—such as marine gearboxes, control panels, instrument clusters, and propulsion system integration kits—to simplify installation and commissioning.
Service intervals are designed for practicality and reliability: routine oil and filter changes are typically scheduled every 250 operating hours under normal conditions, while more extensive inspections are set at longer intervals. Perkins’ global dealer network ensures that spare parts and technical support are readily available in most major ports worldwide.
Safety and Compliance
Safety is integral to the M300C’s design. The engine is equipped with multiple protective devices, including:
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Low oil pressure alarm and shutdown
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High coolant temperature alarm and shutdown
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Overspeed protection
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Battery charging monitoring
All these safety features help protect both the engine and vessel against unexpected failures. The engine meets key international marine standards for emissions and noise, ensuring compliance for commercial and recreational vessel registrations in most jurisdictions.
Applications
The Perkins M300C’s combination of power, durability, and serviceability makes it ideal for:
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Commercial fishing vessels requiring continuous-duty power and high torque.
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Fast patrol boats and workboats that demand quick acceleration and reliability.
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Passenger ferries and water taxis needing efficient, low-vibration propulsion.
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Large sailing yachts and motor yachts seeking dependable auxiliary power.
Its versatility and proven reliability have made it a trusted choice for operators who value performance without sacrificing fuel economy or long-term durability.
The Perkins M300C marine diesel engine is a robust 300 HP propulsion solution designed to deliver exceptional power, efficiency, and durability for a wide range of marine vessels. With its turbocharged and aftercooled design, service-friendly layout, and globally backed support network, it offers operators peace of mind on the water. Whether powering a hardworking commercial vessel or a high-performance leisure craft, the M300C provides the performance edge and long service life expected from the Perkins name.
