Parker Towing repowers towboat with Mitsubishi Tier 3 engines

Written by Heather Ervin

The M/V Syble Fay. (Photo Credit: Eye Wander photography)

Parker Towing Company, Tuscaloosa, Ala., has completed a repower of the M/V Syble Fay, replacing the vessel’s original Cummins QSK38 main engines with two Mitsubishi S12R Tier 3 diesel engines during a project completed at Verret Shipyard in Plaquemine, La.

The new engines, supplied by Laborde Products, are each rated at 1,100 hp at 1,600 rpm, providing a combined 2,200 hp for the 78-foot by 34-foot twin-screw towboat. The vessel has a depth of 10 feet and operates on the U.S. inland waterways.

According to Parker Towing, the repower is part of the company’s ongoing efforts to maintain and modernize its fleet while extending the vessel’s service life.

“The Syble Fay has been a valuable part of our fleet, and this repower was an opportunity to position the vessel for continued service in the years ahead,” said Chas Haun, executive vice president of Parker Towing Company. “Projects like this require strong coordination from everyone involved, and we appreciate the support throughout the process.”

Verret Shipyard performed the engine replacement, working with Parker Towing and Laborde Products throughout the project.

“The S12R continues to be a strong option for operators looking for dependable horsepower and long-term serviceability,” said Jacob Vega, marine sales representative at Laborde Products.

The M/V Syble Fay has since returned to service with its new Tier 3 propulsion system.