Perkins engines
Perkins 4000 Series Engines: 4006, 4008, 4012 and 4016
The Perkins 4000 Series is Perkins’ largest diesel engine family, with 6, 8, 12 and 16-cylinder engines from 23 to 61 litres, built for prime and standby power generation from 750 kVA to 2,500 kVA. You will find 4000 Series engines in large generator sets at hospitals, data centres, factories and remote sites. At Sleemans we supply Perkins 4000 Series engines and parts, matched to your serial number and shipped worldwide.
Perkins 4000 Series at a glance
| Range | Cylinders | Capacity | Generator output |
|---|---|---|---|
| Perkins 4006 | 6 inline | 23 L | 750 to 938 kVA |
| Perkins 4008 | 8 inline | 30 L | 844 to 1,250 kVA |
| Perkins 4012 | 12, 60° vee | 46 L | 989 to 1,880 kVA |
| Perkins 4016 | 16, 60° vee | 61 L | 1,400 to 2,500 kVA |
Figures are from Perkins’ 4006, 4008, 4012 and 4016 range pages.
ElectropaK and Electro Unit
Perkins supplies 4000 Series diesel engines in two main forms:
- ElectropaK: the engine comes complete with radiator and air cleaner, ready to couple to an alternator.
- Electro Unit: the engine without radiator and air cleaner, for generator builders who use their own cooling, for example a remote radiator.
Engines are either turbocharged and air-to-air charge cooled, or turbocharged and air-to-water charge cooled, and can be supplied with cooling systems for tropical or temperate climates.
Perkins 4006
The 4006 is the 6-cylinder, 23 litre engine of the range, giving 750 to 938 kVA generator output. Perkins says the diesel 4006 is designed to meet 1/2 TA Luft (1986) emissions, and highlights its power-to-weight ratio and compact design, which make it easier to transport and install.
Perkins 4008
The 4008 is an 8-cylinder, 30 litre engine giving 844 to 1,250 kVA. The 1,250 kVA rating gives a large step up in power from the 8-cylinder platform, which Perkins says reduces installation and shipping costs compared with moving to a bigger engine.
Perkins 4012
The 4012 has 12 cylinders in 60° vee form and a 46 litre capacity, giving 989 to 1,880 kVA. The range also includes the 4012TESI spark-ignited gas engine. Perkins notes that the 4012 shares many components with other 4000 Series engines, which makes replacing parts or upgrading easier.
Perkins 4016
The 4016 is the largest engine in the series: 16 cylinders in 60° vee form and 61 litres, giving 1,400 to 2,500 kVA. It is available as an ElectropaK or Electro Unit and is used for large prime, standby and combined heat and power installations.

Where are Perkins 4000 Series engines used?
- Standby power for hospitals, data centres and critical buildings
- Prime power for factories, mines and remote sites
- Rental and temporary power
- Combined heat and power (CHP) systems
How to identify your Perkins 4000 Series engine
The engine model and serial number are on the data plate. 4000 Series engines are built to order for different outputs, frequencies (50 Hz or 60 Hz), cooling systems and controls, so the full serial number is essential when ordering parts or a replacement. Send it exactly as written with a photo of the plate, and tell us the generator make and model.
Perkins 4000 Series parts and service
We supply parts for Perkins 4006, 4008, 4012 and 4016 engines, including filters, gaskets and overhaul kits, cylinder heads, injectors, water pumps, turbochargers, starters and governors. Because these engines are often used for critical standby power, we can help you plan spares so they are on the shelf before you need them.
Perkins 4000 Series FAQs
How many cylinders does a Perkins 4016 have?
Sixteen, in 60° vee form, with a total capacity of 61 litres.
What size generator does a Perkins 4012 power?
Perkins lists 4012 diesel ElectropaK engines at 989 to 1,880 kVA generator output.
What is the difference between an ElectropaK and an Electro Unit?
An ElectropaK comes with radiator and air cleaner fitted. An Electro Unit is supplied without them, so the generator builder can fit their own cooling.
Do you ship Perkins 4000 Series engines and parts overseas?
Yes. We supply customers worldwide and can arrange shipping to most countries.
See the Perkins 2000 Series, our diesel generators, or all Perkins engines.
Get a quote
Get a quote for a Perkins 4000 Series engine
Looking for a Perkins 4006, 4008, 4012 or 4016 engine, or parts to keep one running? Send us your serial number and we will come back to you with availability and a price.