LHX-001 NHU100F A Perkins engined model with ECW B45F Body and seating
LHX-002 CJJ44H    A Leyland engined model with a Plaxton B49F Body and seating
LHX-003 MBO1F    A Short 'LHS' model with an unusual Weymann DP30F Body and seating

The first production models were registered in March 1968 and the last model registered was CLJ413Y new to Toop of Dorchester on a LHS chassis with Plaxton bodywork.

The LH came in many configurations LHS the 'S' being for short, LH being the standard length version and LHL the 'L' being for a long version.  They were available with a choice of initially a Perkins H6.354 or Leyland 400 engine, which later on was modified to a 401 engine.  All engines being 6 cylinder, direct injection oil engines.  In the main the popular choice was the the 401 engine with a Turner Clarke T5/400 5 speed syncromesh gearbox and no power steering, although some London Transport examples had a 5 speed semi-automatic gearbox and power steering.

The LHS had an overall length with body of approx 24', the LH overall body length was approx. 32'6" and the LHL being 36' in length.

The LH range of chassis predominantly found themselves coming with either an ECW body for bus work or a Plaxton for express and coaching models, but many were bodied by alternative coachbuilders including Marshall, Duple, Alexander and Northern Counties to name a few.

The LH came to have a somewhat strange reputation.  Many companies took them as a replacement to the more 'known' AEC Reliance to which the drivers did not take too kindly to them! They did not see the LH as a step forward more of a backward step!!

Engineers did not think to highly of them either with problems arising such as blown gaskets, overheating and leaks!!!

But from a personal point of view I have always found them to be one of my favourite vehicles!!! The noisy engine, the bouncy ride, the bowl of soup for a gear stick all make a rather unique driver and passenger experience!

Not bad that they are still seeing stirling service up and down the country, for a vehicle that was built with an estimated life expectancy of 9 years!!!!!

If you have seen any inaccuracies on this brief history then email me