Li 2 ena i ne t• f or e i g ht- w h ee l er EIGHT-wheeler operators can now specify the naturally aspirated L12 engine for the Leyland Octopus.
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Up to now, it was only available for the Buffalo range, but the change means the engine is offered as an alternative to the turbocharged 511 model, which has the same basic specification, apart from the engine, clutch and gearbox. Developed from the turbocharged TL12 Marathon engine, the L12 version produces 15 IkW (203bhp) at 2,200rpm with a maximum torque of 773Nm (5701bft) at 1,40Orpm.
A 432mm (17in) diameter single dry-plate clutch is used in conjunction with an Eaton D403 six-speed constant-mesh gearbox, similar to that fitted to the AEC Mammoth Major eight-wheeler.
The 511 Octopus uses a Fuller gearbox and a twin plate clutch. There are two separate pto apertures on the Eaton box, one on each side.
The L12 Octopus is available with the same wheelbase options as the turbocharged trucks: 5.8m (19ft) for tipper/ tanker application and 6.4m (21ft) for haulage.
To improve the breathing of the naturally aspirated engine, the 12.5 litre (761cuin) L12 is fitted with a different camshaft to the TL12.
The construction of the inlet manifold is somewhat unusual with a "Y" branch trunking feeding into plenum chambers which, Leyland claims, will ensure that each cylinder receives the optimum supply of air for efficient combustion.
Installation of the L12 engine under the Leyland Ergomatic cab has meant the relocation of the alternator to the rear of the engine, where it is driven by a jack-shaft with two Metalastik bushes.
In contrast to the ,L12 engined Bisons, built solely for George Wimpey, the L12 Octopus becomes a standard production option.