Tech Tip #16: The Evolution of the Perkins 4.107 & 4.108

Dr. Diesel
Written by Dr. Diesel

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Are any parts available to get my Perkins 4.107 running?

Perkins 4.107 (also known as the Westerbeke 40) engines have been out of production now for roughly four decades. New 4.107 cylinder heads and short blocks are no longer available from the factory. Perkins doesn’t even offer 4.107 engine overhaul parts kits.

But Foley Engines, the oldest engine distributor in North America, may be able to help 4.107 owners with some of the limited parts still available.  (Unfortunately, the 4.108 internal parts can’t be used to rebuild a 4.107).  Another option may be to upgrade to a 4.108, the more modern, powerful, 50hp.  We offer reman 4.108s for those looking to replace their 4.107 or 4.10 engine and each engine comes with a six-month factory warranty.

Other Considerations:  Some very early Perkins 4.107s had stud holes 1/16 of an inch smaller than on the early 4.107s and 4.108s. To re-use a small hole 4.107 head on a 4.108 short block, simply ensure that the stud holes on the head are 7/16″ (if not, drill them out on a drill press) and use the 4.108 studs with their higher clamping force. Our Foley Tech Tip #10, Torque Values and Valve Settings, give the head torque values and valve settings for these Perkins cylinder heads.  For those who want to upgrade we stock reman 4.108 cylinder heads which eliminates any concern about stud size when upgrading your 4.108.

What about the camshaft?:   After 20 years of marine use, your shaft is undoubtedly worn.  But again, Foley can help you findreground Perkins 4.107/8 camshafts. The reground shafts are done on a Storm Vulcan cam grinder and after grinding the Perkins cam is Parkerized. They meet or exceed factory specifications for new cams.

Please call us direct with any questions. As the oldest Perkins specialist in North America (we were founded in 1916), we have the experience to help you maintain your Perkins 4.107 or 4.108 and upgrade it to the latest specifications.

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Dr. Diesel
Written by Dr. Diesel
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