Lydia Ann Channel Fleet (LACF), Rockport, Texas, a provider of fleeting and fuel services along the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, has partnered with Laborde Products, Covington, La., to repower its 60' push tug M/V Lydia Ann. The triple-screw vessel is now running on Scania DI13 080M marine engines, each delivering 400 hp at 1,800 rpm. The move improved reliability, efficiency, and long-term performance for LACF’s fleet, Laborde officials said in a statement announcing the repower.

The Lydia Ann has been a key part of LACF's operations, serving as a dedicated fleet boat since its acquisition.

"We chose Laborde Products and Scania engines because they’re dependable and efficient," said Todd Maise, president and director of operations at Lydia Ann Channel Fleet. "This repower helps us reduce fuel costs and maintenance, keeping our operation running smoothly."

The new engines meet U.S. Tier 3 and IMO Tier II emission standards, helping to lower emissions while improving fuel efficiency and torque. Operators can expect strong performance, lower maintenance needs, and a longer service life — key factors for fleet owners looking to maximize uptime and efficiency, Laborde officials said.

"The Scania DI13 engines are a great fit for this vessel," said Brian Laborde, president and CEO of Laborde Products. "Our focus is on providing reliable power solutions that make repowers simple and effective. We’re proud to support Lydia Ann Channel Fleet with engines that will keep them running for years to come."

Laborde also recently repowered McKinney Marine Inc.’s 65'x26' tug M/V Charles Cuthbert. The project involved replacing the vessel's two 16V71 Detroit Diesel engines, with two Mitsubishi Tier 3 S6R-Y3MPTAW-4 engines, delivering 630 hp at 1,600 rpm.

The repower project was undertaken to enhance the operational capabilities of the Charles Cuthbert and ensure continued reliability for McKinney Marine, Inc.'s day-to-day operations.

“The Mitsubishi engines provide the performance and dependability we need to keep the M/V Charles Cuthbert running smoothly,” Andy McKinney, vice president of operations at McKinney Marine, said in a prepared statement. “These engines are built to last, which is critical for minimizing downtime and keeping our fleet on schedule.”

“This repower is a great example of how we work closely with vessel operators to deliver solutions that ensure reliability and efficiency,” said Laborde. “With Mitsubishi’s Tier 3 engines, McKinney Marine, Inc. now has a robust and dependable power source that supports their operational goals.”

The installation of Mitsubishi’s fully mechanical Tier 3 engines is designed to provide the vessel with a reliable and efficient power solution, well-suited for its operational needs. The repower supports McKinney Marine commitment to maintaining a dependable fleet and ensuring consistent performance for its customers,” Laborde said.

Laborde Products has also successfully repowered the M/V Ed, operated by American Commercial Barge Line, Jeffersonville, Ind., with two Mitsubishi Tier 3 S6R-Y3 engines, each producing 684 hp at 1,800 rpm. The repower took place at Bollinger Quick Repair shipyard, Harvey, La., ensuring a streamlined transition to the new engines.

ACBL has already begun to enjoy improved performance benefits from the Ed, according to Laborde. Brooks Bourque, director of reliability at ACBL, expressed satisfaction with the repower.

"We couldn't be happier with the new Mitsubishi engines on the M/V Ed," he said. "The performance boost is evident, and Laborde Products made the entire process seamless. Their team was excellent from beginning to end."

"This project exemplifies our team’s expertise and dedication in revitalizing vessels," said Laborde. "We're proud of the M/V Ed's performance and look forward to more successful projects with American Commercial Barge Line."

In addition, Laborde recently announced that Western Branch Diesel, Portsmouth, Va., has joined Laborde’s dealer network to provide Mitsubishi Marine engines and support across an extensive territory, with branches spanning from Virginia to South Carolina.

 

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