Description
Mercury diesel-powered engines give you unparalleled durability. Thermostatically optimised closed-coolant systems. Advanced control systems. And ultimate corrosion resistance. These engines are built to go the distance.
Mercury Diesel 4.2L 320HP DTS – High-Performance Marine Engine
Introduction
The Mercury Diesel 4.2L engine with Digital Throttle & Shift (DTS) technology is a high-performance marine diesel engine designed for both commercial and recreational vessels. Delivering 320 horsepower, this engine sits in the mid-to-high power range of the 4.2L diesel series, offering a perfect balance between raw power, fuel efficiency, and reliability.
This engine is part of Mercury’s modern line of marine diesels engineered to meet the demands of today’s boaters who seek performance, ease of control, and low maintenance. The DTS system provides smooth, precise throttle control and seamless gear shifting, enhancing maneuverability, responsiveness, and overall boating experience.
The Mercury 4.2L diesel series has proven reliability in applications such as yachts, sportfishing boats, commercial workboats, and luxury cruisers, providing a strong and efficient propulsion solution with advanced electronics and user-friendly integration.
Product Description
The Mercury Diesel 4.2L engine is a 4-cylinder, 4.2-litre turbocharged diesel with common-rail fuel injection and a robust marine-adapted design. The engine block and cylinder head are constructed from high-strength materials to withstand marine environments, ensuring durability and long service life.
Equipped with a turbocharger and aftercooler, the engine improves combustion efficiency, maximizes power output, and maintains lower emissions. The 320 HP configuration delivers excellent torque at low to mid-range RPMs, providing strong acceleration, reliable cruising performance, and the ability to handle heavy loads with ease.
The Digital Throttle & Shift (DTS) system eliminates traditional mechanical linkages, replacing them with electronic controls for precise engine response. This technology enhances vessel handling, reduces operator fatigue, and improves fuel efficiency during long-range cruising or high-speed operations.
Cooling is achieved through a closed-loop freshwater system with a heat exchanger, ensuring consistent operating temperatures and preventing corrosion from direct seawater exposure. Key service points are accessible for easy maintenance, reducing downtime and service costs.
Key Features
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Power Output: 320 HP at rated engine speed, delivering reliable propulsion for mid- to large-sized vessels.
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Turbocharged & Aftercooled: Increases air intake density for efficient combustion and reduced emissions.
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Digital Throttle & Shift (DTS): Electronic control for smooth acceleration, precise gear shifting, and improved handling.
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High Torque: Strong low- and mid-range torque for rapid acceleration and towing capabilities.
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Durable Construction: Engineered with marine-grade materials for corrosion resistance and long service life.
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Fuel Efficient: Common-rail injection system optimizes fuel consumption under varying loads.
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Low Noise & Vibration: Balanced design and advanced mounts minimize vibration and noise onboard.
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Global Support: Mercury’s worldwide dealer and service network ensures parts availability and technical assistance.
Technical Specifications
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Model | Mercury Diesel 4.2L DTS |
| Engine Type | 4-cylinder, 4-stroke, turbocharged diesel |
| Displacement | 4.2 litres |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged & aftercooled |
| Cooling System | Closed-loop freshwater with heat exchanger |
| Rated Power | 320 HP (239 kW) |
| Max Torque | Approx. 900 Nm at 2,000 RPM |
| Fuel System | Common-rail direct injection |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Rated Speed | 3,500 rpm (peak) |
| Transmission | DTS (Digital Throttle & Shift) compatible marine gearbox |
| Alternator | 12V / 100A |
| Starting System | 12V electric starter |
| Exhaust | Water-cooled manifold with integrated turbo |
| Weight | Approx. 450–500 kg (varies by configuration) |
| Rotation | Clockwise or counterclockwise options available |
| Noise & Vibration | Advanced mount system for low NVH |
| Emission Compliance | Meets EPA Tier 3 and IMO Tier II marine regulations |
| Application | Yachts, sportfishing boats, commercial vessels, cruisers |
Performance and Reliability
The Mercury Diesel 4.2L 320HP DTS is engineered for consistent, reliable performance in diverse marine conditions. Its turbocharged and aftercooled system ensures power is available across the RPM range, while the common-rail fuel injection optimizes fuel efficiency and reduces emissions.
The DTS system improves vessel maneuverability, providing precise control during docking, close-quarter navigation, and high-speed operation. This makes the engine ideal for both professional operators and recreational boaters who demand smooth, predictable response from the throttle and gear controls.
Mercury’s design focus on durability ensures the engine withstands the harsh marine environment, with corrosion-resistant components, robust cooling systems, and heavy-duty construction ensuring longevity and reduced maintenance requirements.
Applications
The 320 HP Mercury Diesel 4.2L DTS engine is suitable for a wide range of vessels, including:
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Luxury yachts and motor cruisers requiring smooth, responsive control.
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Sportfishing boats needing quick acceleration and reliable performance offshore.
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Commercial workboats and ferries demanding continuous-duty reliability.
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Patrol boats and rescue vessels requiring precision maneuverability in tight spaces.
Installation and Maintenance
The engine’s compact layout and electronic DTS system simplify installation and integration with modern helm controls. Routine maintenance is straightforward with easy access to oil, fuel, and coolant service points. Mercury also provides a range of optional marine accessories, including instrumentation, propulsion packages, and digital control systems, to optimize vessel performance.
Regular maintenance intervals, as recommended by Mercury, ensure peak performance and extend engine life. The global Mercury dealer network provides ready access to spare parts, service manuals, and technical support, minimizing downtime and keeping vessels operational.
The Mercury Diesel 4.2L 320HP DTS engine is a versatile, high-performance marine diesel designed for boaters who demand power, efficiency, and precise control. Its combination of 320 horsepower, DTS electronic control, turbocharged efficiency, and durable construction ensures exceptional performance, smooth handling, and long-term reliability. Ideal for yachts, commercial vessels, and sportfishing boats, this engine offers a perfect balance of strength, responsiveness, and modern technology for today’s marine operators.
