Description
Explore the features of the Perkins M250C Marine diesel engine 250hp, designed for superior performance and reliability in marine applications.
Perkins M250C Marine Diesel Engine – 250 HP Performance
Introduction
The Perkins M250C marine diesel engine is a high-performance, reliable, and efficient power solution engineered for a wide range of commercial and leisure vessels. With a rated output of 250 horsepower (186 kW), the M250C delivers an ideal balance of power, fuel efficiency, and durability, making it one of the most versatile engines in the Perkins marine range. Designed for operators who require dependable propulsion with minimal maintenance, the M250C is ideal for yachts, fishing boats, patrol craft, passenger ferries, and other mid-sized vessels.
Built on Perkins’ proven inline 6-cylinder platform, the M250C incorporates advanced turbocharging and aftercooling technology to provide strong low-end torque, smooth acceleration, and excellent fuel economy. Its compact and robust design allows for flexible installation in tight engine rooms, while the engine’s comprehensive marine adaptation ensures reliable operation in harsh saltwater conditions.
This detailed review explores the Perkins M250C’s product description, key features, and technical specifications to provide a comprehensive understanding of its capabilities and applications.
Product Description
The Perkins M250C is a 6.6-litre, 6-cylinder, 4-stroke marine diesel engine designed to provide dependable power under continuous and variable load conditions. It features a cast iron block and cylinder head, ensuring exceptional structural integrity and long service life, even in harsh marine environments.
This engine utilizes a turbocharged and air-to-water aftercooled induction system, which increases the density of air entering the cylinders for more efficient combustion. The result is higher power output with reduced fuel consumption and lower emissions. Its direct fuel injection system, coupled with a mechanical rotary fuel pump, ensures precise fuel delivery across the engine’s operating range, providing smooth and responsive throttle control.
Cooling is provided by a freshwater circuit connected to a heat exchanger, isolating the engine from corrosive seawater. A raw water pump circulates seawater through the heat exchanger to maintain optimal engine temperature. The engine’s layout places all service points, including the fuel filter, oil filter, and dipstick, on one accessible side, simplifying routine maintenance and minimizing downtime.
Vibration and noise are minimized through the use of precision-balanced components and resilient engine mounts. This makes the M250C suitable for vessels where comfort and quiet operation are important, such as passenger ferries and luxury yachts.
Key Features
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Powerful Output: Produces 250 HP (186 kW) at 2,800 rpm, providing reliable propulsion for mid-sized marine vessels.
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Turbocharged & Aftercooled: Enhances combustion efficiency and increases torque for improved vessel performance.
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Durable Construction: Cast iron block and cylinder head for long-term durability in harsh marine conditions.
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Service-Friendly Layout: One-side access to all key maintenance points reduces downtime and labor costs.
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Efficient Cooling: Freshwater heat exchanger and raw water pump ensure optimal engine temperature and prevent corrosion.
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Low Vibration and Noise: Balanced components and resilient mounts reduce vibrations and enhance onboard comfort.
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Emission Compliance: Designed to meet international marine emission standards while maintaining fuel efficiency.
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Global Service Network: Supported by Perkins’ worldwide dealer and service network for parts and maintenance.
Technical Specifications
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Model | Perkins M250C |
| 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 | 250 HP (186 kW) |
| Rated Speed | 2,800 rpm |
| Max Torque | Approx. 820 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. 50–55 litres/hour at full load |
| Starting System | 12V or 24V electric starter motor |
| Alternator | 12V / 70A or 24V / 55A |
| Weight (Dry) | Approx. 720 kg |
| Dimensions (L × W × H) | 1420 mm × 780 mm × 940 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 Perkins M250C is engineered to deliver consistent performance and exceptional reliability in marine environments. Its turbocharged and aftercooled configuration ensures high torque availability across a wide RPM range, allowing vessels to accelerate quickly and maintain cruising speeds efficiently. This makes it ideal for both variable-duty commercial operations and leisure cruising.
The engine’s durable cast iron construction, combined with advanced sealing technologies, protects against corrosion and wear, extending its service life. The freshwater cooling system isolates critical engine components from direct seawater contact, reducing thermal and chemical stress.
Fuel efficiency is a strong point of the M250C. With precise fuel injection and optimized combustion, the engine provides extended operational range, lowering running costs for commercial vessels and enhancing convenience for recreational users.
Installation and Maintenance
The Perkins M250C’s compact design allows for flexible installation in tight engine compartments, and its one-side service layout simplifies routine maintenance. Optional marine accessories—including gearboxes, control panels, instrumentation, and propulsion integration kits—are available to streamline installation and commissioning.
Perkins recommends standard maintenance intervals of approximately 250 operating hours for oil and filter changes under normal conditions. More comprehensive inspections, such as valve adjustment and cooling system checks, are scheduled at longer intervals. The global network of Perkins distributors ensures that spare parts and technical support are readily available, minimizing downtime and ensuring continuous operations.
Safety and Compliance
Safety features integrated into the M250C include:
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Low oil pressure alarm and automatic shutdown
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High coolant temperature alarm and automatic shutdown
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Overspeed protection
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Battery charge monitoring
These systems protect both the engine and vessel, ensuring safe operation in demanding conditions. The M250C also meets international marine standards for emissions and noise, allowing vessel owners to comply with regulatory requirements globally.
Applications
The Perkins M250C is versatile and well-suited for a wide range of marine applications, including:
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Commercial fishing vessels requiring continuous-duty power and high torque.
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Passenger ferries and water taxis where low vibration and noise are essential.
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Workboats, patrol boats, and tugboats requiring reliable propulsion.
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Leisure yachts and motor yachts seeking dependable, fuel-efficient power.
Its combination of power, efficiency, and low maintenance requirements makes it a trusted choice for marine operators around the world.
The Perkins M250C marine diesel engine is a 250 HP powerhouse designed to deliver consistent performance, fuel efficiency, and reliability. With a turbocharged and aftercooled configuration, compact service-friendly design, and globally supported maintenance network, the M250C ensures that vessels remain operational, efficient, and safe under a variety of marine conditions. Whether for commercial, recreational, or mixed-use vessels, the M250C offers the performance, durability, and ease of maintenance that marine operators demand.
