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NOW AEC's 12-METRE FOR UK
Page 43
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BRITAIN'S first 12-metre bus or coach chassis, announced by AEC Ltd. in export form a year ago, is now available, with alternative specifications, for the home market. The engine chosen for this model is the AH691, which is offered in two derated versions. This, together with two alternative transmissions, gives, in effect, four versions of the 12-metre Reliance 691.
All the new chassis have identical major dimensions, with a wheelbase of 20ft (1ft 5in, more than the 11-metre chassis), a front overhang of 7ft 2in. (increase of 7fin.) and a rear overhang of lift 2in. (increase of 1ft 3in.). Thus the proportions and weight distribution of the shorter chassis are continued, to give a comfortable ride, while the increase in the front overhang, which can be increased further by using the length tolerance within the 12 metres (39ft 4in.) allows a wide front entrance for stage carriage work. The swept turning circle is 78ft.
The regular version with synchromesh transmission shares the same chassis components as the 11-metre Reliance, namely the AH691 engine set at C rating (157 bhp at 2,000 rpm) six-speed ZF S6-70 gearbox and 151in. diameter spiral bevel rear axle. A substantial increase in brake-lining area, already incorporated in the 11-metre chassis, has been made, front shoes having been widened from 4+ to 6in. and rear shoes from 7 to 8in.