[Richard.Janek]

Hello!

I am under contract to purchase a 1995 Tiara 4000 Express with twin Cummins 6CTA8.3 engines. The engines passed survey, however, I am wondering if there is any knowledge about how to rebuild these engines in-frame if needed. Is is possible to do an in-frame rebuild on this boat, without cutting out the deck?

Best regards,
Richard

[neto]

Hello!

I am under contract to purchase a 1995 Tiara 4000 Express with twin Cummins 6CTA8.3 engines. The engines passed survey, however, I am wondering if there is any knowledge about how to rebuild these engines in-frame if needed. Is is possible to do an in-frame rebuild on this boat, without cutting out the deck?

Best regards,
Richard

I have a 98 3500 express with the same engines and I think it can be done... I have seen some posts of people that have done it on other models,, the express has a large engine room (larger than the open) and since the 6CTA is a wet sleeve engine, it could be done for some repairs (hoping that your block is in good condition).... I would ask in boatdiesel, seaboard marine or the cummins powered boats group in facebook to be 100% sure. If you would have had 6BTA's then it would be a no..

[GeoDoc]

I considered a 90's era 4000 and was told that an in frame was not doable, so If I were you I would double check.

[Richard.Janek]

Thanks for the response and comments. I did end up purchasing this boat.
In the end, I considered my budget vs the condition of the boat and then tried to imagine how I would deal with any problems that could arise. One of the most expensive is having to replace the main engines. I don't expect that the diesels would need rebuilding, however.

I suppose one might try an in-frame rebuild down in the 4000 Express engine compartment, but it would be tight. It seems the only real path forward would require opening the helm deck or removing and replacing the engines piece by piece. The in-frame route would at least require the ability to drop the oil pan and access the fasteners on the crankshaft, also from the top, you would need to be able to pull out the cylinder liners and use a puller if needed.

Some mechanics told me that it is possible, one mechanic said no way (but did not have direct experience regarding the issue).

Like I said, the diesels in this boat run great, the previous owner maintained them professionally, as will I, look forward to getting to know this new boat.

I'm having her transported from Long Beach to the San Francisco Bay Area.

[neto]

if you maintain and treat them well and go through thr sea water side at least once per 1-2 year i dont think you would have any issues...