1922 Leach Model 22A

The journey towards automobile manufacturing frequently commenced with the production of bicycles or the construction of coaches, as existing factories, equipment, and skilled engineers facilitated a smooth transition. Before the Leach-Biltwell Motor Company manufactured and distributed the Leach automobile from 1919 to 1924, they built a successful business of automobile coachbuilding and customization. The Leach Power-Plus Six motorcar was constructed at the recently acquired Republic Truck Company factory.

The Leach automobiles were primarily sold in California, near their base of operations in Los Angeles, and advertised with the slogan 'The Aristocrat of Motordom'. Seeking customers through the country, Leach advertised in major magazines, and displayed a Leach automobile at the Chicago Auto Show in 1920.

Re-capitalizing in 1922 allowed for the acquisition of the Miller Engine and Foundry works. Harry A. Miller became the vice president of Leach-Biltwell and developed a new engine for the company.

In 1923, the Leach automobile company launched a smaller model known as the California, aiming to increase sales and address its escalating financial difficulties. A year later, the company was forced to move to a smaller factory and discontinued the Leach Power-Plus Six.

Leach automobiles were among the most expensive and exclusive on the market, offering luxury, durability and performance with stylish and stately coachwork. In 1922, prices reached their highest point at $6,500, a sum that was accessible only to the exceedingly wealthy. As few as 218 and as many as 264 Leach automobiles were produced during their brief existence.

Engines
The Leach Power-Plus Six was powered by the proven 303.1 cubic-inch Continental inline six-cylinder engine offering 60 horsepower. The wheelbase initially measured 126.5 inches, growing to 128 inches in 1921, before settling at 134 inches in 1922. Most of the company's factory body styles had four doors, seating for five, and open tops. By 1922, the list included a 5- and 7-passenger tourer, roadster, 4-passenger sport, and a coupette. The company was known for its 'California top' which was a precursor of the 'hardtop' body style that would follow many years later.

After the purchase of the Miller Engine and Foundry in the early 1920s, Leach automobiles began utilizing a Miller model 999 OHC inline six-cylinder engine, which produced 100 horsepower. However, many of the engines experienced 'teething' issues that tarnished the company's reputation, leading to the subsequent use of Continental engines in many of the later models. By 1924, the company had ceased operations.

by Daniel Vaughan | Sep 2024