Mercedes-Benz Actros V8: Buying Used

When Mercedes-Benz revealed the last incarnation of its V8 engine in its Actros model range a decade or so back, these trucks boasted all the bells and whistles. Sadly though, for Mercedes-Benz, those V8 Actros models didn't deliver the market share the company had hoped. Nevertheless, they did sell in significant numbers, and many of these old V8 Actros models are now finding their way onto used truck lots.

The flagship Mercedes-Benz Actros 2660 had the OM502LA – a 15.9-litre V8 that thumped out 600 horsepower, more than enough to comfortably haul a B-Double.

But one of the most significant changes was the introduction of a new and automated G281 PowerShift 12-speed overdrive transmission, a unit capable of handling the additional horsepower generated by these V8s.

The 600hp engine produced an extra 60hp more than the previous version, while the gearshift speed increased by 15 per cent compared to the older transmission. The 12-speed transmission is now rated for applications up to 70 tonne. Meanwhile, the G280 16-speed PowerShift transmission is rated for applications up to 90 tonne.

The standard ‘Telligent’ braking system includes the ABS and ASR (traction control) of previous models. Still, these trucks introduced us to roll-back prevention for safely moving off inclines.

The non-synchromesh Mercedes-Benz PowerShift transmissions offered significant advantages in terms of optimised shift times with high shifting comfort. But, more importantly, they also have a higher torque and power capacity than comparable synchromesh transmissions. In addition, drivers could choose from different modes – Economy, Power or Manual – to better suit the prevailing conditions, and they all delivered smoother gear changes.

Our test truck, a Mercedes-Benz Actros 2660 with a high-roof sleeper cab, offered drivers design features to improve efficiency, with a big emphasis on reducing fatigue. The bunk area was generous in size and came complete with privacy curtains to ensure a good night's rest. There was also the choice of a lower-roof-height sleeper and the Mega Space cab, where an additional bunk could be specified for two-up driving operations. This cab featured a flat floor.

Meantime, at the wheel of the Actros 2660 and with full a charge of air, it was time to toggle the little gear lever to select second gear, then depress the accelerator and stir the Actros 2660 into motion.

The early afternoon traffic westbound on the Great Western Highway was light as the Actros 2660 entered the motorway at a touch after one. Our route out of Sydney to Bathurst was to take us up and over Mount Victoria in the Blue Mountains, then past Katoomba and Lithgow before meandering into the famous ‘home of the V8’, Bathurst.

The Mercedes-Benz Actros 2660 uses a Telligent wiring system, which along with full communication with the engine and transmission, allows an accumulation of data from the engine, transmission and other equipment, making it possible to transfer information to a fleet management system.

In the city, that 'Benz PowerShift 'box worked a treat. With the single trailer behind, in auto mode, it shifted up and down gears exceptionally smoothly. We were scheduled to couple up to the B-Double lead trailer just out of Lithgow.

The V8 and PowerShift transmission work together in complete harmony, giving the driver the freedom to get the most out of the drivetrain whatever scenario presents itself.

For instance, if you require a bit more engine braking while the transmission is in 'auto' mode, you merely toggle the small lever at the front of the gear selector backwards, and it will drop a gear.

Conversely, when climbing a steep grade like the one up Mount Victoria, you can press the button at the rear of the gear selector to engage 'manual' mode and hold the gear. On really long and steep climbs, if you leave it in auto mode, the transmission will constantly be changing up and down gears, meaning you're burning extra fuel unnecessarily.

Another handy thing is the kick-down function. To activate this feature, depress the accelerator all the way down to the floor, and you'll feel a detent – a point where the pedal’s travel initially stops, but with further pressure can be pushed a little further. That's how you trigger the kick-down function.

The best way to operate it is when you are approaching a steep climb. You press the accelerator past the detent, which is part of the driver's interaction with the truck by telling the engine that the truck is approaching a steep climb. It will then drop down a gear and increase the revs so minimal road speed is lost on the climb.

This V8 can best be summed up as a little engine with a big heart. Our test vehicle was set at 598hp (440kW) and developed 2065lb/ft (2800Nm) of torque at 1000rpm.

Our truck ran Mercedes-Benz H7 planetary hub reduction rear axles with a ratio of 3.43:1 and driver-controlled diff locks. Its tall diff ratio sees the 2660 Actros cruising at 100km/h at 1390rpm. The rear suspension was a Mercedes-Benz eight-bag air suspension system with stabilisers, while up front you’ll find a three-leaf parabolic set-up with sway bar, coupled to an 8-tonne I-beam axle. Fuel tank capacity is up to 1200 litres, complemented by a 95-litre AdBlue tank.

Another noteworthy standard feature is the 400mm self-adjusting clutch, which adjusts itself each time the ignition is switched on. In addition, the truck is fitted with a desiccant-type air dryer, along with a $14,500 safety package including Voith transmission retarder, Telligent proximity control, Active Brake Assist, and Telligent Lane Assist.

From a driver's point of view, the cabin environment is adequately appointed with ample room for additional switches, which may be required for operating auxiliary equipment such as hydraulics. Everything is within easy reach, and visibility is excellent both fore and aft. However, the few switches mounted behind the steering wheel are somewhat awkward to get to when required.

The standard air ride Grammer seat combined with the fully adjustable steering wheel ensures the driver can find that perfect driving position with minimal fuss.

Road manners are excellent, which is what we've come to expect from Mercedes-Benz. The ride is very smooth and the steering is extremely positive. Cabin entry and exit are straightforward – what you'd expect of a cabover truck.

With the addition of the B-Double lead trailer, the tenacious ‘Benz V8 showed little hesitation when asked to perform. The quicker downchange from 12th to 11th in the hills was most noticeable. In addition, the difference in fuel economy between the single and double configurations was negligible, although our figures where admittedly recorded over what was a relatively short test run. But it was this truck’s ride and comfort that, for me, really stood out.

Mercedes-Benz is a mature engine builder, its powerplants attracting a reputation for reliability and robustness in the field, instilling confidence for any buyer. However, this ’Benz V8 wasn’t the most economical engine going for long-haul operations.

Mercedes-Benz goes to great lengths to emphasise the longevity and durability of its Actros. Happily, there’s plenty of substance behind that claim – we’ve both heard and seen documented evidence of brake disc replacement carried out after 450,000km, and clutches that have lasted for over 750,000km.

The B10 life of Actros trucks – defined as the time within which 10 per cent of a machine will have failed – currently stands at 1.2 million kilometres. However, some 'Benz users say it's worth investigating the following when looking at a used Actros:

• Some early models suffered water ingress related to their wiring looms. In some cases, water ran down inside the loom and damaged ECUs. Thankfully there is a fix for this issue, but it is worth checking if it's been carried out.

• On particular trucks, the TCM module (gearbox control) leaks air. Again, check whether this issue was rectified.

• We have heard multiple reports that specific engines are mildly prone to engine management and AdBlue warnings on the dash, which primarily turn out to be AdBlue sensor issues. However, some pump replacements were required to rectify the problem. Check the history for replacement.

Make: Mercedes Benz
Model: Actros 2660LS 6×4
Engine: Mercedes-Benz OM 502LA
Capacity: 15.9 litres
Horsepower: 600hp (447kW) at 1600rpm
Torque: 2065lb/ft (2800Nm) at 1100rpm
Gearbox: Mercedes-Benz G281 12-speed PowerShift
Retarder: Engine brake – standard system
Front axle: Mercedes-Benz, 8.0T
Front suspension: Leaf parabolic with anti-roll bar, 8.0T
Rear axles: Mercedes-Benz 440 hypoid with diff locks to both axles
Rear axle ratio: 3.43:1
Rear suspension: Mercedes-Benz air suspension
Brakes: Mercedes-Benz electronically controlled disc brakes
Safety: ASR with integrated ABS and traction control
Wheelbase: 3250mm
Adblue tank: Polished stainless steel, 110 litres
Fuel tank: Brushed Alloy (1050 litres)
Cabin: L-Cab Streamline Space, flat floor with 2.5m head height
Bumper: Polished alloy bullbar

Check out the following Mercedes-Benz Actros V8 trucks currently listed for sale on Trucksales (as of May 2022)