Used Caterpillar C13 ACERT Engine 13.0L for Sale
The Caterpillar C13 ACERT Engine is a robust 13.0L inline 6-cylinder engine, renowned for its power and torque, suitable for heavy-duty on-highway trucks, construction equipment, and industrial machinery. It offers 335 to 525 horsepower and 1,350 to 1,850 lb-ft of torque. Equipped with a liquid-cooled system and high-pressure common rail (HPCR) fuel system, it ensures optimal operating temperatures, enhanced fuel efficiency, and reduced emissions. Complying with Tier 4 Final / Stage V emissions standards, the engine incorporates ACERT technology and a high-pressure common rail fuel system, optimizing fuel efficiency and performance.
Known for reliability and durability, the C13 ACERT is built with high-quality materials and undergoes rigorous Caterpillar testing. It features advanced electronic controls for smooth operation under various conditions. Maintenance is facilitated by Caterpillar‘s extensive support network, authorized service centers, and readily available spare parts. Advanced diagnostics and sensors help monitor performance and identify issues, ensuring timely maintenance and minimal downtime.
Key Features of the Caterpillar C13 ACERT Engine
- Renowned for robust performance and advanced ACERT emissions technology
- Turbocharged with aftercooler system for enhanced performance and efficiency
- Electronic Control Module (ECM) for optimized engine management with CAT proprietary diagnostics
- High-Pressure Common Rail (HPCR) fuel injection technology for fuel efficiency and emissions control
- Proven reliability and durability across on-highway and off-highway applications
- High torque output for superior hauling capability up to 1,850 lb-ft
- Meets stringent Tier 4 Final and Stage V environmental standards with ACERT
- Easy maintenance with accessible engine components and CAT dealer network support
- Extensive parts availability simplifies repairs and upgrades
- Reprogrammable vehicle operating parameters through CAT ET diagnostics
ACERT Technology Explained
ACERT stands for Advanced Combustion Emission Reduction Technology. It’s Caterpillar’s proprietary multi-system emissions approach that combines high-pressure common rail fuel injection, advanced air management (twin turbochargers in some variants), aftertreatment systems including DPF and SCR (where applicable), and CAT ECM controls. ACERT was Caterpillar’s path to meeting EPA Tier 4 emissions without re-architecting the base engine, which is why the C13 ACERT retains the proven C13 architecture while adding modern emissions compliance.
Signs You Need a Replacement C13 ACERT
- Loss of compression on one or more cylinders during dyno or in-frame test
- Cylinder head crack symptoms (coolant loss, white smoke, hard start)
- Excessive blowby past piston rings (sign of bore wear or ring failure)
- Connecting rod or main bearing knock under load
- Oil consumption above factory spec for the engine’s age
- ECM diagnostic codes pointing to internal mechanical issues
- Aftertreatment failure that has damaged the engine (DPF clog with backpressure damage, etc.)
- Donor truck or equipment has been totaled or sold for parts and the engine is being moved to a new chassis
- Repower of a Class 8 truck, construction excavator, generator, or marine vessel that originally received its C13 ACERT from new
Known Cat C13 ACERT Issues We Inspect Before Shipping
- Cylinder head cracks: A documented C-series weakness similar to the older 3406 family. We pressure test or visually inspect heads before shipping.
- HPCR injector wear: Common rail injectors have a service-replace nature. We note injector functionality where inspectable.
- Aftertreatment system condition: DPF, DOC, and SCR (where applicable) condition documented on every unit.
- EGR cooler integrity: Inspected for cracks and coolant ingress to combustion chamber.
- Liner and piston inspection through bore where accessible.
- CAT ECM functionality verified before shipping.
| engine-family | ACERT, Caterpillar C-Series |
|---|---|
| type | Diesel Engine, heavy duty |
| displacement | 13.0 liters |
| configuration | Inline 6-cylinder |
| aspiration | Turbocharged with aftercooler |
| cooling-system | Water-cooled |
| fuel-system | High-Pressure Common Rail (HPCR) |
| horsepower | Up to 520 hp (335 to 525 hp range) |
| torque | 350 to 1, 750 lb-ft (1, 850 lb-ft range), Up to 1 |
| emissions | EPA compliant (varies by model year), Tier 4 Final / Stage V) |
| combustion-technology | ACERT |
| manufacturer | Caterpillar Inc. |
| applications | construction equipment, Heavy-duty trucks, industrial applications |
| compatibility | 2000 Caterpillar C13 ACERT Engine and cross-fit applications |
| price | $10, $999.00 |
FAQs












Reviews
There are no reviews yet.