Are Perkins / Kubota engines any good?

Thanks for any help.

Re Perkins engines: I have used quite a few of them in many different applications over the last 40 or so years and have yet to have one suffer a 'major' while I have been using it. That is not to say that they don't break down. They just seem to do it less than some other engines on the market.

It is my understanding that Caterpillar bought Perkins out about 7-8 years ago and the Perkins engine plants are now manufacturing Cat as well as Perkins engines. I think that might say something about the quality of Perkins manufacturing processes. The first inkling I had of this was about 6 years ago when I was using a hired de-watering pump with an engine labelled 'Caterpillar by Perkins'. Upon enquiring, I was told that Cat had bought out Perkins. I must confess though that I have not had that confirmed anywhere else than the man who told originally.

Hope this helps.

You have a wonderful day. Best wishes. Deas Plant.

I have no direct experience with Kubota. As far as Perkins, they are very reliable and long lasting engines. As with any diesel, their life expectancy is directed related to oil change intervals and other maintenance and operational factors such as air cleaner service, cooling system and load factors. "Dogging" or "lugging" any diesel engine at low RPM's can damage the bottom end (bearings). Perkins are used in many Allis Chalmers & Massey Ferguson tractors and probably other makes as well. I ran a 6-354 in a shrimp boat in Mississippi for a solid 10 years with no major failures. The engine was a '55 model that came out of small crane in Louisiana. Rebuilt it and marinized it and it did the job well. Perkins are also known for their excellent fuel economy. Hope that gives you a little info of use.