Highlights

Fully rebuilt engine by Gardner specialist Tangent Engineering for road use
Gearbox rebuilt by Allison dealer to match low-revving 6LXB engine
Bespoke-casting bellhousing in good order
Suitable for a huge range of automotive, yacht and workboat applications
Rare opportunity to acquire a rebuilt example of these highly regarded engines

The Appeal

If you’re not into boats or buses then chances are that we may be in unfamiliar territory. But if you are, no introductions will be needed. Because the Gardner 6LXB is one of the greatest engines ever built, powering land and sea-based craft since 1958.

The 6LXB was arguably Gardner’s finest hour - the culmination of a particularly single-minded approach to engine engineering that delivered clever, exceptionally reliable motors. It was notable for delivering maximum power at particularly low revs. This made it exceptionally low-stressed. Ideal for boats and buses in fact.

Key to the engine’s durability was that Gardner did virtually everything in-house - most components were cast or fabricated at its own works. The engineering was similarly impressive, the horizontally braced crankshaft main bearings delivering a hugely strong and rigid bottom end. Gardner focussed on evolution rather than revolution, the original 6LX engine becoming the 6LXB with power increased to 180bhp.

All of which is a loving precursor to this engine and gearbox combination. This 6LXB 6cyl 10,450cc 180bhp diesel engine was recently fully rebuilt by Gardner specialist Tangent Engineering for road use in a project that has now been scrapped. It has only been run for a few minutes since completion. It is mated to a Allison MT643 automatic gearbox that has been fully rebuilt by Allison to a specification designed to match the Gardner unit.

This is a very rare opportunity to acquire what is essentially a brand new engine and gearbox combination. For classic yacht, workboat and bus enthusiasts, this is one not to miss.

History and Paperwork

Vendor informs us that the engine and gearbox were first built in 1979
Engine number 219842
Acquired by seller from Tangent Engineering for a project that has now been cancelled
Engine fully rebuilt by Gardner specialist Tangent Engineering for road use
Gearbox rebuilt by Allison dealer
Bespoke specialist bellhousing casting
Service history prior to engine rebuild is unknown

The Mechanics

10,450cc 6cyl 6LXB diesel Gardner engine
Engine fully rebuilt by Tangent
We are told it has only been run for a few minutes since completion
180bhp at 1,800rpm and 562lb/ft of torque according to seller
Allison 4spd automatic gearbox with reverse gear
Gearbox fully rebuilt by Allison dealer
Gearbox ratios built to match engine for changes at low revs
Iron cylinder block, cast iron cylinder heads and cast alloy crankcase
Horizontally braced crankshaft main bearing for hugely strong bottom end
Large capacity engine designed to operate at very low stress
Bespoke specially-cast bellhousing according to seller
No reported running or driving issues
Buyers should note that engine has not run except as detailed above

BEFORE YOU BUY

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