Mitsubishi S12R 1350HP
Mitsubishi Marine Engine
S12R
Tier 3
Power
1350 HP
@ 1600 & 1800 RPM
Configuration
V12
Turbocharged, aftercooled
From Rebuild Risk to Reliable Power: The John Austin Repower
Case Study
M/V JOHN AUSTIN
Maritime Partners | Pushboat Repower
Previous Engine
QSK38
1300 HP
@ 1800 RPM
New Engine
S12R-Y3
1260 HP
@ 1600 RPM
Modifications
Grid Coolers The existing coolers were undersized for the Mitsubishi. Laborde offered direct replacements that dropped into the existing cooler box. In addition, the generator cooler was shifted forward 12 inches to accommodate the new setup. 14 in Exhaust The S12R required 14-inch piping and mufflers. The existing 12-inch system was removed and replaced without issue. The vessel's exhaust stack had enough space to support the upgrade. Air Inlet System The QSK38 relied on onboard filters. For the S12R, remote air canisters and 10-inch piping were added to pull cooler outside air and help maintain optimal inlet temperature. Engine Mounts A new set of pedestals was fabricated to match the height of the Mitsubishi, while still aligning with the vessel's original mounting rails. Cooling Line Adjustments Piping was rerouted to align with the Mitsubishi's inlet and outlet positions.
Gearbox Retained
Reintjes WAF 665
Result
Smooth repower with fewer unknowns and greater operational confidence.

Existing systems including electronic controls, Racor filtration, fuel supply, and the air start system remained fully compatible with the new engine. The installation required no custom rework, introduced no unexpected issues, and came together with limited yard time and a clearly defined scope.
“At 28,000 hours, it came down to a full overhaul or a repower. We chose the S12R. It meant less downtime, more value over the long haul, and confidence that Laborde’s team would be there with the right service support.”
Austin Sperry
Co-Founder & President, Maritime Partners
START YOUR REPOWER WITH CONFIDENCE
Your Partner in Marine Power
At Laborde Products, we specialize in powering commercial marine vessels with reliable, low-maintenance Mitsubishi engines. Whether you’re repowering or building new, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
